This Tuesday 4th March, children and adults throughout the country will take part in Pancake Day! Pancake Day is a Christian holiday that takes place on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent. It’s a time to reflect on life and prepare for Lent by using up foods that will be given up during that time.

Why is Pancake Day celebrated?

Shrovetide

Shrove Tuesday is the last day of Shrovetide, a four-day period when Christians use up ingredients they will give up during Lent.

Lent

Lent is a 40-day period of fasting and prayer that marks the time Jesus spent in the desert.

Confession

The word “shrove” comes from the old Roman Catholic practice of “shriving,” which means to confess sins.

Pancake Day traditions

Pancake bell: Some parishes ring the church bell to signal it’s time to start making pancakes. Pancake parties: Some churches have pancake parties on Shrove Tuesday.