African students from Vologda State University took part in a festival celebrating authentic Russian troikas in the Vologda region

The village of Erofeyka near Vologda has become a magnet for thousands of fans of traditional Russian winter fun. The annual Russian Troika Festival, whose program is centered around sleigh racing competitions, once again attracted spectators with a variety of attractions, competitions, hot Vologda gray soup, and battles between reenactors.

Students from African countries studying at Vologda State University also contributed to the festive atmosphere on this surprisingly sunny winter day. They actively participated in games, danced in circles, learned to ride horses, and got acquainted with the cuisine of the Russian North.

"I liked everything except the cold. I enjoyed horse riding, it was great," said Aminata Drame, who came to Vologda from Mali, sharing her impressions.

Local residents approached the delegation of foreign students, eagerly chatting and sharing the secrets of winning folk games.

Gnagne Ismael Jeff Farouk, a student at VSU from Burkina Faso, shared:

"We also have festivals in my homeland, but of course, they are held in the summer. We dance, play games, ride horses and camels, and grill meat, similar to your shashlik. I enjoyed the atmosphere here. Everything that people do here, you can see that they do it with enthusiasm. More wonderful memories from the Russian North."

The festival has become a symbol of mutual understanding between peoples, where everyone could find something familiar and close to their hearts. The best groups from the Vologda region performed on the main stage: the Russian North song and dance ensemble, the Master Class show duo, Balalaika Mix, and the author of "songs of the strong in spirit," singer Nikolai Emelin. Guests actively participated in the competition for the most original sleigh, "Like Clockwork," which culminated in the capture of a snow fortress. The Russian Troika Festival became part of the "Winter of the Russian North" project, which was initiated by the governor of the Vologda region, Georgy Filimonov.

The participation of African students from VSU in such events is an important step towards strengthening international ties and broadening horizons for all guests of the festival.