In Photos: Russians Burn Fortress Effigy to Mark Maslenitsa Holiday

Russians all over the world have been celebrating Maslenitsa, a holiday that rings in the symbolic end of winter and, for Orthodox Christians, the last chance to celebrate before the start of Lent.

For most, the holiday represents a day to gather with friends and family and prepare a feast of bliny, Russian pancakes similar to crepes.

However, the holiday has its origins in Slavic folk traditions and Slavic mythology, and many people also burn effigies and wear traditional costumes in addition to eating bliny.

This year, the Nikola-Lenivets art park, which is located around 150 kilometers (92 miles) southeast of Moscow and known for extravagant festivals, performances and celebrations, held its own Maslenitsa festival.

The park’s founder Nikolai Polissky built a wooden fortress consisting of 24 towers which was set on fire after a brief performance.

Here’s a look at the festivities: