Crepe Day

Crepe Day: A Delicious Celebration of French Cuisine

Crepe Day, also known as La Chandeleur or Candlemas, is a French holiday celebrated on February 2nd each year. It’s a day dedicated to enjoying delicious crepes, thin pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

Quick Facts

When is it?: February 2nd
Tagged as: Food holiday, French tradition
What’s the hashtag?: #CrepeDay
When was it founded?: Origins date back to the 5th century
Who founded it?: Evolved from pagan and Christian traditions

History of Crepe Day

Crepe Day has its roots in both pagan and Christian traditions. Originally a pagan festival celebrating the midpoint of winter, it was later Christianized as Candlemas, commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the temple. The tradition of eating crepes on this day symbolizes the sun and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

Timeline

472 AD: Pope Gelasius I introduces Candlemas
13th century: Crepes originate in Brittany, France
Middle Ages: Wine and water used in crepe batter instead of milk
Present day: Crepe Day celebrated worldwide

Crepe Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	February 2	Sunday
2026	February 2	Monday
2027	February 2	Tuesday
2028	February 2	Wednesday
2029	February 2	Friday
2030	February 2	Saturday

Observed Crepe Day

Crepe Day is primarily observed in France, where it’s a beloved tradition. Families and friends gather to make and enjoy crepes together. The day is filled with superstitions and customs, such as holding a coin while flipping a crepe for good luck.

In recent years, the celebration has spread to other countries, with people worldwide embracing the delicious tradition of making and eating crepes on February 2nd.

Restaurants and cafes often offer special crepe menus on this day, allowing everyone to partake in the festivities, even if they don’t make crepes at home.

Fun Facts About Crepe Day

Crepes symbolize the sun and prosperity
Flipping a crepe while holding a coin is believed to bring good fortune
The first crepe is often saved and placed in a drawer for luck
Crepes can be enjoyed for any meal of the day
The word “crepe” comes from the Latin “crispa,” meaning “curled”

Quiz

On which date is Crepe Day celebrated?
What is the French name for Crepe Day?
Which region of France are crepes said to have originated from?
What does the round shape of a crepe symbolize?
What ingredient was used in crepe batter during the Middle Ages instead of milk?

(Answers: 1. February 2nd, 2. La Chandeleur, 3. Brittany, 4. The sun, 5. Wine mixed with water)

FAQs

What is the traditional way to eat crepes on Crepe Day?
There’s no single traditional way, but many people enjoy both sweet and savory crepes throughout the day.

Is Crepe Day only celebrated in France?
While it originated in France, Crepe Day is now celebrated in many countries around the world.

Can I use any type of flour to make crepes?
Traditionally, wheat or buckwheat flour is used, but you can experiment with different flours.

What’s the difference between a crepe and a pancake?
Crepes are thinner and larger than typical pancakes and are often filled or folded.

Is there a special technique for flipping crepes?
Yes, it requires practice to flip crepes in the air. Many people use a spatula for easier flipping.

Importance of Crepe Day

Crepe Day is more than just a food celebration; it’s a cultural tradition that brings people together. It marks the midpoint of winter and the anticipation of spring, symbolizing hope and renewal.

The day provides an opportunity for families and friends to gather, share meals, and create memories. It’s a time to pass down traditions and recipes from one generation to the next.

Moreover, Crepe Day showcases the versatility of French cuisine and promotes cultural exchange. As the celebration spreads globally, it introduces people to French culinary traditions and encourages creativity in cooking.