Russia comes alive at Taste of WAFI through the Yarmarka a la Russ!

Traditional Soviet era life explored through a vivid spectrum of food, music, literature and crafts

The sights, sounds, smells and taste of traditional Russia come alive at WAFI Mall this May as the Yarmarka a la Russ recreates times gone by in a celebration of Russian flair on the last three Saturdays of May 2015 – falling on the 16^th, 23^rd and 30^th of the month. 

Yarmarka a la Russ captures the essence of a Russian fair, and recreates scenes from the Soviet era. At the same time, it ensures audiences can partake of authentic cuisines and artisanal wares in a family-friendly environment brought to life through authentic looking backdrops, roving musicians and Russian folk dances.

The scene will be set with a giant balloon arch in red, white and blue evoking the Russian flag. The iconic Red Square – home to a historic yarmarka - will be recreated via backdrops of flagship buildings including the former State Duma – now the Historical Museum – and the GUM Trading house.

As the old Soviet Union is brought to breathtaking life, Lenin and Stalin will be making surprise visits to the Yarmarka a la Russ as accomplished impersonators delight the crowds. Those looking for a perfect social media snap can take selfies while hanging out with a cutout of current Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“WAFI Mall is proud of its reputation as a place that offers experiences and not just retail. Themed events such as the Yarmarka a la Russ at Taste of WAFI are a massive attraction for audiences, and enable our shoppers to explore a bit of history and culture in an extremely fun setting. The Yarmarka – or traditional Russian fair - will capture the flair of the old Soviet Union in a way that offers entertainment for the entire family,” said Layla Al Harmoudi, Head of WAFI Central Marketing Department.  

Local food vendors will set up their wares, offering free tastings and a menu of purchasable items. And in homage to a quintessential Russian export, Matreshka dolls will be available as souvenirs. Space will be also be dedicated to Russian books and translations.

For the younger visitors to WAFI’s Yarmarka a la Russ, a themed arts and crafts area will offer colouring activities, Matreshka doll painting, accessory crafting, bag colouring and bead making fun.

Soviet writer Eduard Uspensky’s lovable children’s literature creation Cheburashka – also known as Topple in English – will be temporarily putting aside Olympic mascot duties in Russia to visit WAFI and mingle with the crowds.

Proceedings will be imbued with musical gaiety courtesy a roving troupe of authentically dressed Russian musicians playing the guitar, violin, accordion and balalaika – a traditional triangular three-stringed Russian instrument.

“The Yarmarka a la Russ will capture some of the familiar tropes of old Russian life, and imbue them with new gaiety and flair. It’s an excellent way to access a bygone era in a light-hearted manner that offers entertainment, shopping and culinary options for everyone,” concluded Layla Al Harmoudi, Head of WAFI Central Marketing Department.