Thursday 06 / March / 2025
Muscat– The much-anticipated Spring Festival "Maslenitsa" took place in Muscat, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Russia while strengthening cultural and business ties between Russia and Oman. Organized by the Russian House in Oman, with the support of Oman’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, the Russian Ministry of Culture, the Government of St. Petersburg, and the Russian Embassy, the festival presented a vibrant display of music, dance, traditions, and culinary experiences.
A distinguished Russian delegation participated in the grand opening ceremony, including key representatives from federal and regional executive authorities of the Russian Federation. Among the honored guests were Deputy Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation Andrey Malyshev, Deputy Chair of the Committee on External Relations of St. Petersburg Nizami Mamyshev, Minister of Culture of the Tula Region Tatyana Rybkina, and other dignitaries.
A Celebration of Cultural Exchange
“This year’s festival was particularly special as it coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Russia and Oman. The largest event ever for the Russian Community. We hope this event served as a platform for fostering deeper cultural understanding and stronger bonds between our two nations. This event is for all residence of Oman along with all nationalities residing in the Sultanate and not limited to the Russian speaking community.” added Igor Egorov, Chairman of the Russian Community in Oman.
“Spring Festival Maslenitsa is not just a festival; it is an immersive cultural experience that allows people to connect with Russian traditions, history, and heritage. We were honored to bring this celebration to Oman for the third consecutive year and were delighted to welcome thousands of visitors,” said Anna Popova, Head of the Russian House in Oman.
Exciting Performances and Activities
The festival featured performances by renowned Russian ensembles such as the St. Petersburg Song and Dance Theatre "Moroshka" and the State Academic Honored Dance Ensemble of the Republic of Dagestan "Lezginka." Additionally, as part of the "Russian Seasons" cultural project, theatrical performances and traditional folk music concerts were showcased.
Attendees enjoyed a wide range of interactive activities, including:
-Learning traditional Russian folk dances
-Participating in cooking workshops featuring Russian pancakes and Eastern sweets
-Playing traditional Russian folk musical instruments
-Experiencing Russian folk crafts, including painting Matryoshka dolls and Filimonovo toys
A grand fair was also held, featuring authentic handmade products and souvenirs from both Russia and Oman.
Special Features & Partnerships
A highlight of the festival was a collaboration with the legendary Russian animation studio "Soyuzmultfilm," bringing to life beloved childhood characters in giant puppet form to delight audiences of all ages.
Additionally, an exclusive VIP Majlis was available for sponsors and distinguished guests to network and explore business opportunities.
The festival was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors, including Oman Oasis Water, the official hydration partner. Oman Oasis Water, a leading brand in the Sultanate, is known for its commitment to providing pure and high-quality drinking water to Omani residents, ensuring hydration and well-being in every drop.
Join the Celebration!
With an attendance of over 30,000 visitors, the Spring Festival Maslenitsa delivered an unforgettable experience filled with joy, tradition, and cultural exchange. The public participated in the festivities at Marsa Plaza in Al-Mouj on February 21st and 22nd.
The celebrations to be concluded on February 23rd with a special joint concert at Bait Al Zubair in collaboration with the Russian House.
