Penza, 26 February 2017. PenzaNews. Hundreds of Penza citizens took part in mass celebrations of Maslenitsa, which were held in the Belinsky central park of culture and leisure in Penza on Sunday, February 26.

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Fairs trading in souvenirs made by different craftsmen started their work in the park alleys.

During the celebrations, visitors of the park could take part in different games and contests, and enjoy theater performances.

An effigy of Maslenitsa was installed in one of the squares of the central park of culture and leisure. This year, it was dressed in a green dress and a yellow-and-black vest.

In the morning, the head of Penza Valery Savelyev and the Penza mayor Victor Kuvaytsev took part in the mass celebrations personally making several pancakes and treating people to them.

The ensembles "Slavyane", and "Rossiyskie Berezy" as well as the vocal studio "Maestro" performed on the park stages.

One of the most spectacular entertainments was the ancient Russian fun "Reach the rooster". Young men were not the only who tried to climb a wooden post – women and children also gave it a try.

Each time the audience warmly supported the person who decided to climb the post. Winners received different souvenirs.

There were also folk competitions in which men competed against each other to see who is stronger. This year, the competitions featured participants from foreign countries.

In addition, everyone could sing chastushkas, take photos with puppets and enjoy the rides.

The burning of the effigy was held in the central park at 19.00 after which a "Maslenitsa disco" with fire show elements began.