How to Throw a Lupercalia Pancake Party

Pancake Day is one of my favourite days of the year; hovering on the cusp of spring, dining on sugar-sprinkled stodge for breakfast, lunch and dinner - and if you’re religious, it’s all endorsed by the Lord himself. What a day! But did you know that Shrove Tuesday, like so many Christian celebrations, actually has pre-Christian roots? In holy lore, Shrove Tuesday (also known as Mardi Gras or ‘Fat Tuesday’) is a time to confess your sins, burn last year’s palm leaves, choose something to give up for Lent, and eat pancakes, sweets and other rich foods before fasting for 40 days. The theme is purification, just like its pre-Christian predecessor: The Ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia.