People prepare pancakes during Maslenitsa celebrations in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Feb. 22, 2026. Maslenitsa is a traditional holiday to celebrate the beginning of spring. (Photo by Roman/Xinhua)

People dance during Maslenitsa celebrations in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Feb. 22, 2026. Maslenitsa is a traditional holiday to celebrate the beginning of spring. (Photo by Roman/Xinhua)

Performers dance during Maslenitsa celebrations in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Feb. 22, 2026. Maslenitsa is a traditional holiday to celebrate the beginning of spring. (Photo by Roman/Xinhua)

People burn a scarecrow during Maslenitsa celebrations in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Feb. 22, 2026. Maslenitsa is a traditional holiday to celebrate the beginning of spring. (Photo by Roman/Xinhua)