Maslenitsa, sometimes known in other countries as Mardi Gras or Carnival, is Russia's pancake week. This year maslentitsa, the week before Lent when Russians load up on pancakes and treats to prepare themselves for 40 days of fasting, lasts from February 20th to 26th. On the last day of Maslenitsa, there's usually a union of pagan and Christian traditions when a huge effigy - representing the winter - is burned and people celebrate the imminent arrival of spring. This Sunday at Elagin island there'll be a huge celebration which will include all the most fun elements of the Maslenitsa tradition.Games, contests, prizes and live music will be taking part all day long. A horse show is promised, as well as clowns, comedy theatre and sleigh rides. Furthermore there will be not one but two open-air ice-rinks, an arts and crafts market, the chance to make your own panacakes, folk dancing, an ice fortress and a free blin for every visitor.