(Source: http://usamovara.spb.ru/maslenica.htm)

Almost every one of us loves the holidays, especially the ones where you can show your worth.

Different games, contests are held and pancakes are baked on Maslenitsa since the old days in honor of this holiday - the symbol of the sun. Each day of Maslenitsa was assigned certain rites in the ancient times. Monday was for the meeting of Maslenitsa. Tuesday was for games and fun. On Wednesday mothers-in-law invited their sons-in-law to eat pancakes. On Thursday crowds of people went sledding. On Friday, as opposed to Wednesday, sons-in-law treated their mothers-in-law. On Saturday daughter-in-law parties usually took place. And the Sunday was called the Day of Forgiveness. That's what Maslenitsa entertainment was several centuries ago.

The Maslenitsa pole is a high frozen pole with the grand prize – a live rooster - on top of it for the competitors to get. Riding the poles goes the following way: two poles are set on top of the hill at a distance about 1 meter from each other. The composition resembles the smooth rails on which you can slide down the hill. Those who wish to ride the poles stand facing each other and holding partner's shoulders or waist and slide down. Pancake slaps is the kind of fun when two people on a narrow bench are trying to give each other slaps. The main thing is to stay on the bench.

Despite the fact that many things changed a lot over the centuries, the tradition of celebrating Maslenitsa in the fresh air - in parks and gardens – remains unchanged. Maslenitsa in St. Petersburg will be held in the Babushkin Park on March 17, 2013. There will be children's attractions for the smallest children, family attractions which will delight both children and parents. Children can try them only if accompanied by adults. Extreme attractions will please the special fans of such entertainment. The extreme includes ski and sleds rental for small family members as well as for adults, this will provide the recreation useful both for soul and for health.