International Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is a special occasion celebrated in many countries around the world. It is particularly popular in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Australia, Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, and Brazil.
The holiday always falls on a Tuesday and is observed in February or March, depending on the date of Easter. Shrove Tuesday precedes the beginning of the 40-day season of Lent and is celebrated exactly 47 days before Easter Sunday.
The main tradition of the day is the preparation of pancakes. Historically, this was linked to using up household ingredients that were not consumed during Lent, particularly milk, butter, and eggs. Over time, this culinary custom evolved into an international gastronomic tradition.
Different countries have developed their own ways of celebrating — from family breakfasts and charity fairs to the famous pancake races in the United Kingdom. However, the central symbol remains the same: a hot pancake in the frying pan, bringing together tradition, culture, and flavor.
