Arm Wrestling, Accordions, And Pancakes In Homel

Belarus and its Orthodox Christian neighbors are celebrating Maslenitsa, the Orthodox equivalent of Mardi Gras and Carnival. Although the holiday marks the beginning of the Christian period of Lent, it also incorporates pagan customs, such as burning an effigy representing the spirit of winter. In Homel, Belarus, locals braved cold weather to celebrate on March 16 with traditional pancakes, costumes, music, and games like arm wrestling and pole climbing. (RFE/RL's Belarus Service)