Costumed paddleboarders parade down Moscow's Yauza river
Hundreds of paddleboarders in elaborate costumes floated down Moscow's Yauza river on Sunday during an annual carnival, cheered on by crowds and live music from the bridges above.
An annual stand-up paddleboard carnival took place in Moscow on Sunday, drawing hundreds of participants dressed in colorful and imaginative costumes as they floated down the Yauza river.
A parade of characters
Participants appeared as mermaids, kebab vendors and figures from Russian folklore, including the witch Baba Yaga. Some brought their dogs along to join the ride down the river.
Music and crowds on the bridges
As the costumed boarders drifted past, live bands and cheerleaders performed on the bridges overhead, adding to the festive atmosphere for spectators gathered along the banks and crossings.
Behind the costumes
One couple explained that their mermaid outfit started simply with a tail before growing into a full costume. Another participant said gatherings like this help bring people together, describing them as a way to strengthen bonds between families and friends.
The event has become a yearly tradition in Moscow, attracting both active participants and onlookers who came to watch the colorful procession make its way along the river.
