International Pancake Day (Always Mardis Gras)
International Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras, is a beloved tradition celebrated worldwide on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.
This fun-filled day marks the beginning of Lent, a season of fasting and reflection in many Christian traditions.
People celebrate by making and eating pancakes, using up rich ingredients like sugar, butter, and eggs before the fasting period begins.
From pancake races to unique recipes, this weird holiday in February is packed with delicious customs.
When is the Holiday?
The holiday is celebrated on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which varies each year based on the date of Easter. Here are the upcoming dates:
- 2025: March 4
- 2026: February 17
- 2027: February 9
- 2028: February 29
- 2029: February 13
In the U.S., National Pancake Day is often observed on the second Tuesday in February, separate from Shrove Tuesday.
Who Invented It?
The origins of the holiday trace back to medieval Europe, when people would use up perishable ingredients before Lent.
The Olney Pancake Race in England, which dates back to 1445, is one of the oldest known traditions tied to this holiday.
The race began when a woman, hearing church bells while cooking pancakes, ran to church still holding her frying pan.
Today, towns worldwide hold similar pancake races and celebrations.
The History of the Holiday
The tradition of eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday stems from medieval England, where people would clear out rich foods before fasting.
In France, the day is known as Mardi Gras, meaning “Fat Tuesday,” and is marked with lavish feasting.
Over time, the holiday spread to other countries, each adding its own twist—like the famous pancake race in Olney and the annual U.S. pancake race in Liberal, Kansas, where participants compete against runners in England.
Top 5 Facts the Holiday
- The Olney Pancake Race has been running since 1445 and still takes place today.
- In Liberal, Kansas, the International Pancake Day Race started in 1950 as a friendly competition with Olney.
- Pancakes symbolize the sun in many cultures, representing renewal and hope.
- The largest pancake ever made weighed over 6,600 pounds and was over 49 feet wide!
- Some countries, like France and Japan, have their own unique pancake traditions, such as crêpes and fluffy soufflé pancakes.
Activities to Celebrate
- Host a Pancake Breakfast: Make a variety of pancakes for friends and family.
- Join a Pancake Race: Organize a fun competition in your community.
- Try International Pancakes: Make crêpes, Japanese hotcakes, or Russian blini.
- Get Kids Involved: Create pancake-themed crafts or play food-related games.
Related Recipes
Looking for pancake inspiration? Try these unique recipes:
- Sheet Pan Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes. No flipping required! These easy, oven-baked pancakes feature a rich cinnamon swirl and are topped with a drizzle of homemade cream cheese icing for a decadent breakfast treat.
- Lemon Pancakes. Refreshing and zesty, these pancakes are light, fluffy, and infused with bright citrus flavor. They pair perfectly with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Banana Coconut Milk Pancakes. A dairy-free delight, these pancakes are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and made extra creamy with coconut milk, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Churro Pancakes. Sweet cinnamon-sugar goodness inspired by the classic churro! These fluffy pancakes are coated in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar mix and served with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping.
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Skillet Pancakes. Cozy and flavorful, these pancakes are baked in a cast-iron skillet, packed with warm spices, and studded with melty chocolate chips. Perfect for a fall-inspired breakfast or a special treat any time of year.
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Links to Resources
- Pancake Day Activity Book. A fun and engaging book filled with pancake-themed puzzles, coloring pages, and educational activities for kids to enjoy.
- Crepe Pan. The perfect pan for making thin, delicate crêpes or evenly cooked pancakes with a professional touch.
- Pancake Batter Dispenser. Make pouring pancake batter easier and mess-free with this handy kitchen tool, ideal for creating perfectly shaped pancakes every time.
Related Holidays
- National Blueberry Pancake Day (January 28)
- National Crepe Day (February 2)
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