The Russian mascot for the 2018 FIFA World Cup was a wolf named Zabivaka. Zabivaka's design was selected through a nationwide voting campaign in which over one million people participated. Zabivaka is a playful and friendly character with a blue and white sports uniform and a football at his feet. The choice of a wolf as the World Cup mascot pays tribute to the wild and untamed spirit of Russia's vast wilderness. Wolves are also seen as symbols of unity, teamwork, and determination in Russian folklore. Zabivaka's name means "the one who scores" in Russian, emphasizing the importance of scoring goals in the game of football.
‘Witches Paddle’ in Wickford Harbor Is a Fall Event Like No Other
Calling all witches and warlocks. Your ghoulish presence is requested for the annual Witches Paddle in Wickford, Rhode Island.
Every fall season, dozens of witches ditch their broomsticks for kayaks, paddle boards, and peddle kayaks for an epic experience in Wickford Harbor.
It’s called The Witches Paddle 2023, and it promises a fun, fall experience like you’ve never seen.
Get our free mobile appWhat to Expect at Witches Paddle
Wickford takes pride in its Halloween festivities, and every year, Halloween-inspired events take over the tiny town. Known as “Wickford Wicked Week,” family-friendly events will take place October 23rd to the 31st, and to kick it off on the 23rd, the 4th annual Witches Paddle will take place in the harbor.
Hosted by the Kayak Centre of Rhode Island, anyone can participate in the Witches Paddle, and the $10 entry fee will be donated to the North Kingstown Food Pantry.
Costumes are encouraged, whether you're participating in the paddle or watching on the sideline.
For those participating, There will be 4 categories for a costume contest with prizes up for grabs in each category: Best Witch, Best Warlock, Best Dressed Pet, and Most Creative/Original.
I’ve never participated in the paddle, but I’ll be at the town dock with my family in my witch hat, soaking in the spooky sight of the witches floating by.
Important Information for Witches Paddle 2023
Date & Time: Sunday, October 22 from 12-2 pm (Rain Date: Sunday, October 29 from 12-2 pm).
The event and costume contest officially ends at 2 pm.
Launch Location: Public Access beach next to Gardner's Wharf
Parking: Public parking lot next to Gardner’s Wharf
Bib Pick-Up and Registration Check-In: 10-11:45 am (located between the parking lot and the launch site)
Launch Times: 10 am - 11:45 am
The paddling parade will be leaving the Gardner's launch at 12 pm and then paddling towards the town dock behind the village shops and parking lot, where the judges will be waiting. After the judges have scored you, you will then be able to fly away on your broomstick and stay out as long as you want.
All participants must be on the water by 12 pm.
Registration is required to participate in the event.
Zabivaka's name means "the one who scores" in Russian, emphasizing the importance of scoring goals in the game of football. As the official mascot, Zabivaka played a vital role in promoting the World Cup and engaging with fans. He appeared in various promotional materials, merchandise, and public events leading up to and during the tournament.
Spend an Enchanting Night at The Hocus Pocus Cottage in Salem
On October 12th, the booking will open on Airbnb for one lucky group of guests that will spend a magical evening in the Sanderson sister's cottage. Grab your broomstick and fly through this virtual tour of the iconic house from Hocus Pocus.
Zabivaka's presence added excitement and a touch of fun to the World Cup, creating a positive and memorable experience for both Russian and international fans. Overall, the selection of Zabivaka as the Russian mascot for the 2018 World Cup was a creative and fitting choice. The playful and friendly personality of the wolf resonated with football enthusiasts of all ages and helped enhance the overall atmosphere of the tournament. Zabivaka will always be remembered as an iconic symbol of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia..
Reviews for "The Power of Mascots: How Russian Symbols Energized the World Cup"
1. Emma - 2 stars
I was really excited for the Russian mascot world cup, but it was a huge disappointment. The mascots were poorly designed and lacked creativity. They all looked like generic animals with nothing unique about them. It felt like the organizers didn't put much effort into the event. Additionally, the voting process was confusing and it was difficult to navigate the website. Overall, I expected more from the Russian mascot world cup and it fell flat for me.
2. John - 1 star
The Russian mascot world cup was a complete waste of time. The mascots were unappealing and did not represent the diversity and creativity that one would expect from such an event. It seemed like the organizers focused more on quantity rather than quality, resulting in a bunch of forgettable mascots. The whole concept was underwhelming and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
3. Sarah - 2 stars
I was extremely disappointed with the Russian mascot world cup. The mascots were confusing and lacked character. They all seemed like generic animals without any unique traits. The event felt rushed and unorganized. It was evident that the organizers didn't put much thought into the selection process. I expected a lot more from a world cup event, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations.