Posted by Bruce Bilmes and Sue Boyle
, February 15, 2010 12:57
Who wouldn’t want to see women running down the street flipping pancakes? The tradition began in 1445 in Olney, England when a woman who was making pancakes to use up cooking fat before Lent rushed to church, pancake pan in hand, apron on, for Shrove Tuesday services. 505 years later the town of Liberal, KS got into the act, and a competition developed between the two towns.
The 2010 events began this past Saturday with pancake eating and flipping contests, a cooking contest, and a high tea. Yesterday they held a scholarship pageant and an artist showcase. There’s a talent show today. But the big stuff kicks off tomorrow morning with a pancake breakfast and reception. Youth races begin at 10 a.m. and the big Liberal-Olney race starts at 11:55 a.m. Note that all entrants must wear “usual housewives attire”! The skillet and pancake will be provided by the race committee. The course runs 415 yards and contestants must flip their pancakes both at the start and the end of the race. Only Liberal (not necessarily liberal) women may participate. The race will be followed by a shriving service and a parade.
For more info on International Pancake Day, see their website.
