Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, observed in many Christian countries through participating in confession and absolution, the ritual burning of the previous year's Holy Week palms, finalizing one's Lenten sacrifice, as well as eating pancakes and other sweets.

What does the word shrove mean in Shrove Tuesday?

The word shrove comes from shrive, meaning to present oneself for confession, penance, and absolution. Shrove Tuesday marks the last day before Lent - a period of forty days whereby Christians traditionally fast or give up certain foods.

Why is Shrove Tuesday called Pancake Day?

The name Shrove Tuesday derives from the practice of Anglo-Saxon Christians going into confession the day before Lent, and being 'shriven' (absolved of their sins). A bell would be rung to call people to confession, which became known as the 'Pancake Bell' and is still rung today.