ANNUAL PANCAKE DAY STILL STACKS UP AFTER 59 YEARS.
Marion is home to many traditions and among them – of course – is the Marion Noon Kiwanis Pancake Day. Originally known as Shrove Tuesday, always the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, Pancake Day is celebrated in different ways around the world. For instance Mardi Gras is celebrated in Brazil and New Orleans and Fat Tuesday is celebrated in France. Although different names, each country celebrates this day for the same reasons.
The reason these fluffy, yellow cakes were so popular this time of year was the observation of Lent. Making pancakes was the most efficient – and delicious – way to use any eggs and fats before Lent. Spiritually, Lent was known for a time of fasting and self-reflection. Seasonally, Lent was known for the coming of spring, the sun, and planting of the crops. Either way, Pancake Day was celebrated community-wide to reflect and prepare for the year to come. Pancake Day originated in the United Kingdom in 1445 and many communities adopted this tradition.
This is Marion Noon Kiwanis’ 59th year celebrating this scrumptious breakfast meal with friends and family. Not only does Pancake Day in Marion encourage us to become closer to our neighbors, Marion Noon Kiwanis takes it one step further. All the proceeds of the day’s festivities are given back to the youth of Marion through the Boys & Girls Club, the Marion Palace Theatre Jr. Productions, and Harding’s Athletic Boosters. Marion Noon Kiwanis Pancake Day is on Saturday, February 25, 2017 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tri-Rivers Career Center. This year’s Pancake Day is in memory of Bob Columber. Tickets are $5 for an adult and $3 for children 12 and younger in advance – $6 and $4 at the door. Tickets can be found with any Kiwanis or Altrusa member, Southland Barber, and Tri-Rivers Career Center.
