National Crepe Day (February 2)
Celebrate National Crepe Day on February 2nd, a delicious tribute to one of the world’s favorite thin pancakes.
This holiday is steeped in tradition and creativity, offering a chance to enjoy crepes in both sweet and savory ways.
From historical origins to modern recipes, there’s much to savor.
Whether you’re trying something new or keeping it classic, National Crepe Day is the perfect excuse to indulge. One of many obscure holidays in February, it’s a delightful way to spice up the month.
When Is the Holiday?
National Crepe Day is celebrated on February 2nd, coinciding with Candlemas in France.
It’s a day filled with culinary creativity and cultural tradition.
Who Invented It?
While the exact inventor is unknown, crepes date back to Brittany, France, in the 12th or 13th century.
A happy accident involving buckwheat porridge on a hot griddle is credited as the starting point.
The History of the Holiday
National Crepe Day, also known as La Chandeleur, has rich religious and cultural roots dating back to Candlemas, a Christian holiday celebrated on February 2nd. Candlemas commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple and the purification of Mary, but its origins are intertwined with earlier pagan traditions celebrating the midway point between winter and spring.
Crepes became central to this celebration due to their round, golden shape, symbolizing the sun and the promise of brighter, warmer days ahead. In the agrarian societies of medieval France, the ingredients used to make crepes—flour, eggs, and milk—were seen as symbols of prosperity and were offered as a gesture of hope for a successful harvest.
Several unique customs developed around La Chandeleur. One of the most well-known traditions involves flipping crepes in a pan while holding a gold coin in your other hand.
This practice was believed to ensure good luck and financial prosperity for the coming year. Another tradition involved saving the first crepe of the day, which was often placed in a wardrobe or dresser. This crepe was thought to bring fortune and protect the household from misfortune.
Historically, the holiday was also marked by generosity. Popes in the early centuries of Christianity, such as Pope Gelasius I in 472 AD, distributed crepes (or similar thin pancakes called crispus) to pilgrims visiting Rome during Candlemas, emphasizing themes of sharing and community.
Over time, La Chandeleur became less religiously focused and more culturally celebrated in France, with families gathering to enjoy crepes together. Today, the holiday remains a beloved tradition, blending ancient symbolism with modern culinary enjoyment.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- Crepes were introduced to Mexico in the 1800s by French settlers.
- Crepes Suzette was created accidentally in 1895 by a 14-year-old chef.
- Millecrepes originated in Japan in the 1980s.
- The word “crepe” comes from the Latin crispus, meaning curled or wrinkled.
- Rain on February 2nd is said to predict 40 more days of rain, akin to Groundhog Day.
Activities to Celebrate
- Host a crepe-making contest at home.
- Try new recipes, like savory chicken and mushroom crepes.
- Learn about French traditions tied to La Chandeleur.
- Share your creations on social media to spread the fun.
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Related Recipes for the Holiday
- Banana Nutella Crepes – A perfect balance of creamy and sweet.
- Vietnamese Chicken Pancakes – A savory twist.
- Keto Crepes – Low-carb and delicious.
- Sweet Pea Lemon Crepe Cake – A grain-free dessert.
- Strawberry Crepe Cake – Fresh and naturally flavored.
- 101 The New Crepe Cookbook will teach you how to make authentic French crepes with no experience!
Related Holidays
- International Pancake Day (Varies)
- National Blueberry Pancake Day (January 28th)
- International Waffle Day (March 25th)
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