Lady Maslenitsa Festival Returns to St. Petersburg with Healthier Blini Tips

The Lady Maslenitsa festival will return to St. Petersburg on February 21 and 22, 2026. Held at the Peter and Paul Fortress, the event offers a modern twist on Russia's traditional Maslenitsa celebrations. Meanwhile, nutrition experts have shared advice on enjoying blini—the festival's signature dish—in a healthier way.

Maslenitsa, often called Pancake Week, centres around blini, a thin, crepe-like dish. Alexey Nikonov, editor-in-chief of Statsionar-Press, recommended ways to make them lighter and more nutritious. For those watching their diet, he suggested replacing some white flour with whole-grain, buckwheat, or oat flour to boost fibre and reduce hunger pangs.

A well-heated pan cuts down on the oil needed for frying. The batter itself should include just one egg per batch, with milk fat kept between 1% and 2.5%. These small changes help lower the dish's calorie count without sacrificing taste.

Portion control also matters. Healthy adults can enjoy 2-3 blini in one sitting, while athletes may handle 3-4. Children should stick to 1-2 small servings, and those on a weight-loss plan can have up to two—but not daily. Timing is key too, as eating blini for breakfast or lunch prevents a heavy feeling later in the day.

For fillings, Nikonov advised choosing fresh or frozen berries over sugary jams. Savoury options like boiled chicken or turkey, hard-boiled eggs, and fresh herbs keep the glycemic index lower. These tweaks make the traditional treat both tastier and more balanced.

The festival will bring Maslenitsa traditions to life with a contemporary approach. Visitors can enjoy blini while keeping nutrition in mind. With simple adjustments to ingredients and portions, the dish remains a festive favourite without the usual heaviness.