is it pancake day today — Shrove Tuesday falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Yes. Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday, falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (ET). The day traditionally marks the final feast before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday and is observed across communities with pancakes and regional names such as Pancake Tuesday.
When and why Shrove Tuesday moves each year
Shrove Tuesday does not have a fixed calendar date because it is tied to the movable date of Easter. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which is 46 days before Easter Sunday, and Shrove Tuesday is the day immediately before Ash Wednesday. In 2026, that means people are marking Pancake Day on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (ET).
The purpose of the day has long religious and practical roots. Historically, households used this final day to use up rich foods—eggs, butter and fat—that were commonly given up for Lent. Making pancakes or fritters was an easy way to consume these ingredients in one sitting before the period of fasting and reflection began.
How people celebrate and what different names mean
Celebrations range from simple family breakfasts to community pancake races and local customs. Many enjoy classic toppings such as lemon and sugar, while others choose syrups, chocolate spreads or savoury fillings. In some areas, people call the day Pancake Tuesday rather than Pancake Day; in parts of the UK, notably in Liverpool, residents often use that alternative name. Both terms refer to the same observance on the day before Ash Wednesday.
Religious observance remains part of the day for many Christians, who use the time to prepare for Lent through confession or church services. The verb 'to shrive'—to confess and receive absolution—explains the origin of the name Shrove Tuesday. In earlier times, shriving bells would call people to confess before the Lenten season began.
Quick guide: what to do if you want to join in
If you want to mark the day, a simple approach is to cook pancakes for breakfast, lunch or dinner and invite friends or family. Traditional recipes call for staple ingredients that many households already have, making it an easy communal meal. For those interested in customs, local pancake races or church events often take place on the day, and schools sometimes include pancake-making or themed activities in their calendars.
Whether you call it Pancake Day or Pancake Tuesday, the day is an opportunity to enjoy a flexible, tasty tradition that blends culinary practicality with cultural and religious meaning.
