Background
The name Shrove Tuesday is derived from the Christian custom of confessing sins and being absolved just before Lent. Shrove Tuesday was traditionally a time to use up all the milk, butter and eggs left in the kitchen. These ingredients were often used to make pancakes, which is why the English call it Pancake Day.
In early England, people were supposed to go to their confessors the week prior to Lent and confess their sins. Carnival Tuesday’s origins may be traced back to a time when restrictions regarding food and entertainment were made during the 40 days of Lent, which commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ. It was common for people to host large festivities as the last possible opportunity before fasting.
During times in history when slavery was more prevalent, particularly in areas such as Haiti, slave masters continued to celebrate Carnival. The slaves could not participate in the same manner because they were not free. After gaining their independence, many of them took advantage of their freedom by celebrating Carnival for the first time. The celebrations featured beautiful clothing, festive music, and cultural shows
Symbols
Carnival Tuesday is often characterized by masks, music and colorful floats on parade for various festivities organized for the day. Trinkets are popular in some parts of the world, while King Cakes symbolize the event in places such as New Orleans. Pancake Tuesday is symbolized by pancakes, which are made from ingredients traditionally restricted during Lent, such as eggs and milk.
Click on the images below for some interesting newsletter articles and activity ideas to celebrate this fabulous event.
Shrove Tuesday Pick-a-Box
Shrove Tuesday Word Find
Shrove Tuesday Newsletter Article
Room Decorations
Celebrate your event with our room decorations to add that “wow” factor to your event.
Instructions for all bunting, napkin rings and cocktail flags below.
General Bunting Instructions
General Cocktail Flag Instructions
General Napkin Ring Instructions
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Bunting Template
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Cocktail Flag Template
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Napkin Rings Template
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Bunting Template
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Cocktail Flag Template
Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Napkin Rings Template