24-05-2025
Festivities underway at Erie's annual Troika Russian Festival
The Troika Festival has kicked off in the historic East Bayfront neighborhood, celebrating Russian culture at the Russian Old Rite Orthodox Church of the Nativity.
Running for three days, the festival offers attendees a chance to experience Russian music, food, and beer. The event began with a blessing and bell ringing by Father Pimen Simon from the Church of the Nativity of Christ.
'We certainly wouldn't start any endeavor without prayer,' said Father Pimen Simon, emphasizing the importance of blessing the festival's food and activities.
WATCH: Brian Wilk live at the Troika-Russian Festival
Despite the cool weather, the festival continued with a variety of traditional Russian dishes. Co-organizer Mary Wassell highlighted the food offerings, including vareniki, a dumpling stuffed with fried cabbage, onion, and mushrooms, and a beet salad. The festival's profits are reinvested into the local community. Mark Sokoloff, a parishioner, noted that the funds help improve the lifestyle of residents in the lower east side of Erie. Erie resident Patty Gyuratz expressed enjoyment at the festival, noting the abundance of activities, bands, and live music.
The 15th annual Troika Festival continues through Sunday, providing a cultural experience and supporting community initiatives in Erie.
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