Published January 20 2026
Why do we eat pancakes on February 2nd?
Each year, 2 FebruaryCandlemas returns like a little "boost" in the heart of winter: we celebrate the light returningWe share a warm moment… and, in France, we (mostly) make pancakesIts name comes from the Latin expression related to the “Candlelight Festival” : the idea of candles/tapes and lights is at the heart of this tradition.
(The date also exists in the Christian calendar, but its current use is very widespread and driven by a love of food.)
A celebration of light… and the end of winter!
What's appealing about Candlemas is its atmosphere: it's the heart of winter, but we're already celebrating. the light that returnsHistorians also point out that this period has long been associated, in several European cultures, with winter and purification rites.
Two simple reasons explain why the crepe became so popular:
- The symbol : round and golden, it is reminiscent of the sun and the days are getting longer.
- Common sense In the old days, it was also a practical recipe with everyday ingredients, perfect for bringing everyone together.
And by the way, here's a useful little tip (often searched on Google):
- Sweet crepe traditionally at the wheat flour.
- Galette (savory) : rather based on buckwheat.
Candlemas sayings...
Candlemas comes with a whole collection of sayings (because early February marks a pivotal moment in winter), for example:
- « On Candlemas, winter either dies or gains strength "(in other words: either things will calm down, or they'll start up again).
These sayings are primarily a oral heritage : amusing, sometimes accurate, sometimes not at all… but always rooted in the observation of the seasons.
Fun facts & little superstitions :
- The tradition of flipping pancakes with a piece is often linked to a belief in luck/prosperity, particularly for harvests.
- The belief of the crepe placed on a cupboard is one of the best-known superstitions surrounding Candlemas.
- Fun fact “international”: on February 2nd, in North America, they also celebrate the Groundhog Day (Groundhog Day), a popular tradition of “predicting” the end of winter.
A nod to the Vendée region: the bignaïe, the “marsh pizza”
In Vendée, we can also celebrate the bignaïe, a generous winter specialty, sometimes nicknamed the “marsh pizza", traditionally eaten in winter with desalted bacon.
What if, this year, you gave your crepes a little 100% Vendée twist, by taking inspiration from a specialty from our region? Find the complete recipe for bignaïe online right here: The Vendée biguenée – A spoonful for dad !
Celebrate Candlemas around La Roche-sur-Yon Agglomeration:
Ultimately, Candlemas is above all a great excuse to get together, celebrate and share a simple and delicious momentWhether you prefer classic crepes or a Vendée-style twist with a bignaïe, all that's left to do is flip the first one... and enjoy!