Shrove Tuesday is the last day of indulgence before Christians traditionally move into a 40-day period of abstinence that marks the lead up to Easter.
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It takes its name from the word "shrive", meaning to confess and seek absolution.
In many parts of the world, it is also known as Pancake Tuesday, a tradition borne out of households cooking pancakes the day before Lent begins.
Fats, eggs and milky foods once counted among the items observant Christians wouldn't eat during Lent. Pancakes were a dish that could use up all these items - just add flour.
This year's Shrove Tuesday falls on February 28 ahead of Easter Sunday on April 16.