Volunteers Give Moscow a Good Spring Scrubbing

Tens of thousands of Muscovites turned out to scrub, paint or sweep Russia’s capital in the annual subbotnik, or spring cleaning.

The custom of giving up time one spring weekend to spruce up parks, streets and courtyards began in 1919. Like many aspects of Soviet life, it now has nostalgic appeal. This year’s participants appeared to enjoy scrubbing Moscow, which is left covered with litter and mud when the snow melts after five months of fierce winter.

“We’ve got about 80 volunteers here, and just look how clean it is,” said Natasha, 28, a janitor in a central park. “It’s only one day; it’s not much to give to the state.”