As we see them, traditions of celebration Easter are almost the same in Russia (with Orthodox Church's dominate role) and Western Europe (with more influence of Catholic Church). The only visible difference is the day of celebration which only occasionally (as in this year) match. But what is interesting, in both cultures there are events celebrated just before the Lent and Easter, and these events differ greatly.
In many parts of the world people enjoy a festive season of Carnival before the Lent. Those who, for example, haven't visited Germany's western regions during carnival time are highly advised to do so. It's a holiday time when everybody are on the streets in costumes, with very nice traditions - wild woman's Thursday and big Monday's carnival procession. You can see more here
Here in Russia we also make fun before the Lent, but in our own way.
One week before the Great Lent (in Orthodox calendar) pancake week starts. From the childhood period I remember that pancakes were prepared and eaten in unthinkable quantities. Pure, with butter, with ham and cheese, jam and, of course, caviar :). Round and golden pancakes in Ancient Times symbolized sun, and the Orthodox Eastern Slavs (our forefathers) believed that praying for spring and doing honour to the Gods of Nature in such a way bring closer warmness.
Another remained tradition of speeding up the coming of Spring is burning of a straw personage, symbolizing Winter. Huge bonfires and small statuette, you can see them in every Russian city in Sunday of Forgiveness (last day of Maslenitsa).
As for Sunday of Forgiveness, it was usual to ask your neighbors, relative and friends to forgive you for any intentional or unintentional offenses, but nowadays it much depends on people and not everyone knows and follows this tradition. But anyway, our clients and prospects, I apologize if we did something wrong and haven't met your expectations somehow. We will do our best next year!
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