Olympiada of Spoken Russian

Description: 

The Western Pennsylvania Olympiada of Spoken Russian is an annual celebration of Russian language and culture that brings together school and university students from across Pennsylvania and neighboring states. Part of a nationwide tradition dating back to the 1960s, the Olympiada offers students an opportunity to showcase their Russian-language proficiency and cultural knowledge through conversation, poetry recitation, and cultural presentations. Beyond the competition, participants enjoy traditional cuisine from post-Soviet countries, explore Russian folk art through hands-on activities, and connect with fellow students, educators, and members of the local Russian-speaking community. The Olympiada fosters cultural exchange, celebrates student achievement, and strengthens connections among Russian-language programs throughout the region.

Participant Categories

• Regular Learners
• Heritage Learners
• Native Speakers

Age Groups

• K-12 students
• College and Post-Secondary Students

Table of Contents (click below to take to you each section):

• Registration by January 27, 2027
  • Guidelines for Determining Participants’ Language Proficiency Levels    
  • Registration
• Cultural Project by February 15, 2027
  • Guidelines
  • Submission
  • Submit Your Cultural Project 
• In-person/Zoom conversation with a judge on February 27, 2027
  • Sample Opinion Questions
  • Poetry Recitation and Discussion (5 minutes)

• Event Information Letter 2027