Russian Week in London Festival Maslenitsa

Russian Festival Maslenitsa returns to London for a week of events starting 24 February, culminating in a huge celebration in the heart of the capital, Trafalgar Square on 2 March. This most Russian of traditions is organised in London in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation and the Mayor of London, and with the support of the Russian Embassy in London.

A free family focused event featuring a spectacular line-up of traditional and contemporary Russian song and dance, Festival Maslenitsa is a celebration not only of Russia's rich cultural heritage but also its emerging contemporary scene. The square will be brought to life by live demonstrations of traditional Russian crafts which visitors will also have the chance to buy. Many tasty Russian delicacies will be available including beef stroganoff, borscht (beetroot soup), Russian pastries such as bubliki and vatrushki and the definitive Maslenitsa treat of blini pancakes. The children's marquee will feature a colourful programme of performances, traditional songs, competitions, games and a presentation of Maslenitsa traditions.

Maslenitsa 2013 featured performances by stars of the Eurovision Contest the Buranovskie Babushki (Singing Grannies), celebrated folk diva Nadezhda Babkina, young folk group Rodnaya Storonka, legendary ensemble Berezka, operatic sensation Aida Gariffulina, the award-winning Bisquit Quartet, the much loved Petr Nalich, highly decorated singer Oleg Gazmanov and one of the most famous Russian rock bands Smyslovye Galuzinazii. 2014's line-up promises to be just as star studded; for more information check out the festival's facebook page and website.