Along with throwing beads, parades, and King Cake, there’s another Fat Tuesday tradition that is often skipped over by many: eating pancakes. To me, this is an absolute thrill as pancakes are my favorite breakfast food. Actually they’re my favorite anytime food. Who can get enough of the light, fluffy, buttery goodness that is the flat cake that comes from a pan?

Well the Grace St. Luke Episcopal Church’s “Buzz Busby” Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper has been keeping the tradition alive for more than 30 years. The concept of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, came to America with the English settlers. (See, they’re not just delicious, they have a rich and syrupy history! : )

Pancake Tuesday was the traditional feast that preceded the 40 days of denial during Lent; the name comes from the practice of shriving, or seeking absolution through penance. These cakes were similar to the ones we typically eat today, and date back to the 1400s.
This is actually something new to me. Now that I know, it gives me a reason to go and flip up a batch right now! Though, I really didn’t need much of a push. : )

Are you in love with pancakes as much as I am? Did you know about this Fat Tuesday tradition? Are there others that you know of?