The meaning of Pancake Day and where to celebrate in Richmond

This year Shrove Tuesday falls on 21 February, also commonly known as Pancake Day.

Pancakes are associated with Shrove Tuesday, the day preceding Lent, because they are a way to use up rich foods such as eggs, milk, and sugar, before the fasting season. The liturgical fasting emphasizes eating more simply, and refraining from food that would give undue pleasure.

Many places have Shrove Tuesday traditions and it was once observed as a ‘half-holiday’ in Britain. In Richmond, the Trinity Church bell is still rung at about noon. It originally called people to confession, and acted as a reminder to eat up their eggs and milk by making pancakes before Lent began.

If you want to join in the celebrations then there are two events to choose from.

Richmond Town Council is inviting everyone to enjoy a free pancake feast in the Town Hall between 4pm and 6pm. Tea and coffee will also be available with a donation to the Mayor’s Charities.

Alternatively, head down to The Station Café which will be offering stacks of delicious pancakes and toppings galore for £5.95 per person between 4pm and 6pm. To make a reservation call 01748 825967 or email: reservations@thestation.co.uk