Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Tuesday, is a Christian holiday celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the season of Lent. It is traditionally a day of feasting and merrymaking before the fasting and penitence of Lent. In 2025, Shrove Tuesday will fall on March 4th.
The origins of Shrove Tuesday date back to the early days of Christianity. The name “Shrove” comes from the Old English word “shriven,” which means “to confess.” On this day, Christians would go to confession and receive absolution for their sins in preparation for the Lenten season. The tradition of eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday is also believed to have originated in the early Church. Pancakes were a way to use up all the rich foods, such as eggs and butter, that were forbidden during Lent.
