is it pancake day today — Shrove Tuesday falls on Feb. 17, 2026

Yes. Today, Feb. 17, 2026 (ET), is Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday. The annual feast day comes the day before Ash Wednesday and marks the last chance for many to enjoy rich foods and celebrations ahead of Lent.

Why the date moves and when Lent starts

Pancake Day’s timing is linked to the date of Easter, which changes each year. Easter in 2026 falls on April 5, placing Shrove Tuesday on Feb. 17 and Ash Wednesday — the start of Lent — on Feb. 18, 2026 (ET). Traditionally, Shrove Tuesday was a day to use up eggs, milk and sugar before the 40-day Lenten fast, and pancakes became the quick, practical solution.

For those observing the Christian calendar, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and runs until Easter Sunday. Many communities treat Feb. 17 as a last day of feasting, reflection and community gatherings before the more restrained period begins on Feb. 18, 2026 (ET).

How people are marking Pancake Day this year

Across neighborhoods, families and institutions, the day is being celebrated with familiar traditions and modern twists. Home cooks are flipping pancakes for breakfast and dinner, experimenting with toppings from classic lemon and sugar to savory fillings, plant-based batters and international variations. Local groups often host pancake breakfasts, church pancake feeds and charity events aimed at fundraising before Lent.

Community pancake races and pop-up events remain popular in many places. Participants dash while flipping pancakes in frying pans, blending spectacle with fundraising. Schools and youth groups frequently use the occasion for themed activities, teaching the history of the day while sharing a simple, crowd-pleasing meal.

Restaurants and cafés typically roll out Pancake Day specials, and many kitchens are offering vegan and gluten-free options to accommodate broader tastes and dietary needs. For those wanting to join in without eating out, simple recipes and quick batter tips — such as resting batter briefly for lighter pancakes and using a hot, lightly oiled pan for even browning — are being shared widely.

What to expect next: Ash Wednesday and Lenten practices

After tonight’s indulgences, observant communities shift to quieter routines on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 (ET). Lent is traditionally a period for reflection, fasting or giving up certain indulgences for 40 days. Some people choose to give up particular foods or habits; others take on positive practices such as volunteering, increased prayer or charitable giving.

Even for those who do not observe Lent, Pancake Day offers a cultural touchpoint: a reason to gather, share food and enjoy a simple culinary tradition. If you plan to celebrate, keep in mind that many local groups and charities use the day to raise funds and awareness, so joining a community event can be a way to combine festivity with purpose.

Whether you’re flipping pancakes at home, joining a race or dropping by a community breakfast, today is the day to indulge before the Lenten season begins tomorrow, Feb. 18, 2026 (ET).