FestRider Photo Blog

Seeing Off Winter, Omsk‑Style: Joyful and United in Spirit

Omsk, House of Friendship Square
Full Story: 54 photosQuick Impression: 27 photos
Buffoons set the tone for the entire three-hour celebration
The square by the House of Friendship is packed: everyone wants to see winter off as early as possible
Cheerful spring folk songs fill the air
Separate stations will serve as spots for making traditional rag dolls
The themed photo zones may look grotesque at first glance, but they look great in photos
And with extra props — simply picture-perfect!
A skillful use of traditions will make the judges’ job harder and the competition more exciting
Skilled housewives from the national cultural centers know just how to draw a crowd
Anyone was welcome to compete for the tastiest and most beautiful pancake
The best recipes are worth sharing with the press
No easy task: the variety of shapes, sizes, and fillings is staggering
Contestants even find a moment to applaud what’s happening nearby
Every Winter Farewell at the House of Friendship features photo zones for fun selfies
At this station, they blindfold you, spin you around, and hand you a carrot
The carrot is meant to become the snowman’s nose — and many succeed
Fighting with soft “logs” tests your balance in both attack and defense
Or you can just lean on mom and “clobber” everyone in sight — until the “log” is taken away
Folk music sounds everywhere: new gathering spots keep popping up
A daredevil shows up in no time: a real birch broom — not a prop — is waiting for him
This game called the “Cossack Bath” is another creative invention of the House of Friendship
Very soon the whole crowd wishes the brave fellow: “Have a light steam!”
There are only four prize boxes: by the rules, they must be brought down or knocked off
Looks like there’s no suspense: the fourth attempt is underway…
…and half a minute later — the fourth successful climb!
Lots of folk games and fun, lots of folklore and traditions
It’s time to burn the effigy — the culmination of the celebration
That’s how the House of Friendship’s Winter Farewell turned out in 2024

Continuing with the Theme

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And in the meantime, there’s time for a photo session — the kind you can only get at Winter Farewell!132 shots

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…so they’re ready to answer any questions — especially about the great bell from 1904126 shots

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This is how the first pumpkin festival in Poltavka will be remembered54 shots

Poltavka: a Pumpkin Style Hospitality

Poltavka (Omsk Region)

All photo stories: 37