Write an article about a special celebration in your country. Use Ex. 1 as a model.

Write an article about a special celebration in your country. Use Ex. 1 as a model. Write about: ### Maslenitsa – A Sunny Farewell to Winter! **Name of celebration:** Maslenitsa (Масленица) **Place of celebration:** Maslenitsa is celebrated all over Russia, but especially vibrant celebrations take place in city squares, parks, and open fields in towns and villages. **Reason for celebration:** Maslenitsa is an ancient Slavic holiday that marks the end of winter and the anticipation of spring. It's a joyful pagan festival that later became integrated with the Orthodox Christian calendar as a week of feasting before Great Lent. **Preparations:** People start preparing for Maslenitsa well in advance. Houses are cleaned, and special treats, especially blini (thin Russian pancakes), are made in large quantities. Many towns set up stages for performances, build ice slides, and prepare large bonfires. **Traditions:** The main symbol of Maslenitsa is the blini, which represent the sun due to their round, golden shape. People eat blini with various toppings like butter, sour cream, jam, or caviar. Another important tradition is building and burning a large effigy of Lady Maslenitsa on the last day, symbolizing the departure of winter and welcoming spring. People also enjoy sleigh rides, snowball fights, and other winter activities. **Activities:** Throughout the week, there are various activities: folk games, singing, dancing, theatrical performances, and fistfights (historically, though now more ceremonial). On the last day, Sunday, known as "Forgiveness Sunday," people ask for forgiveness from each other to start Great Lent with a clear conscience. The highlight is always the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy and often spectacular fireworks. **Comments:** Maslenitsa is a fantastic time for families and friends to gather, enjoy delicious food, and have fun outdoors before the arrival of spring. It's a wonderful blend of ancient traditions and modern celebrations, full of warmth and joy!