The carnival in Russia is considered a folk holiday signifying the end of winter and utilizes some of the traditions and rituals dating back to pagan times.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g27s0pjUs5U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g27s0pjUs5U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g27s0pjUs5U

Maslenitsa is held at the end of winter when snow is still covers the ground. Activities during the festival center around snow related include fun and games that include sledding, creating snow sculptures, snowball competitions, skiing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

All good wishes!