Have you heard folks talking about pancakes a lot today? That's because it's not just any regular Tuesday—it's Shrove Tuesday! Some also call it 'pancake day' or 'fat Tuesday,' which is Mardi Gras in French.
The tradition of making pancakes on this day has its roots in the Christian religion, but for many, it's more of a cultural thing.
What's Shrove Tuesday, you ask? Well, it's the day before Christians start Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter. During Lent, people often give up things or fast as a form of repentance and preparation.
So why pancakes? Because Shrove Tuesday is seen as the last day of indulgence before Lent begins. Pancakes were an easy way to use up rich foods like eggs and fats before the fasting period.
The name 'Shrove Tuesday' comes from 'shrive,' an old word meaning to confess. It's a day for people to clear their conscience before Lent starts.
And when does Lent start? For many Christians, it begins on Ash Wednesday, which is tomorrow. On Ash Wednesday, palms from the previous year's Easter celebrations are burned, and the ashes are used in religious ceremonies.
As for Easter, it doesn't have a fixed date—it changes every year. It's a significant event where Christians commemorate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
For Aussies, Easter means public holidays! Depending on where you are, you might get a long weekend. Each state and territory has its own holiday schedule, but generally, there's time off for Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.
So, whether you're flipping pancakes or planning your Easter break, there's plenty to look forward to!