Among Christians in English speaking countries, today is known as Pancake Day (or officially Shrove Tuesday), as it is _A_ to eat pancakes. Although the celebration has its _B_ in relgion, you don't have to be a Christian to enjoy the day. Most people celebrate it for the pancakes and nothing more.
Pancakes are associated with the day preceding Lent because they were a way to _C_ rich foodstuffs such as eggs, milk, and sugar, before the fasting season of the 40 days of Lent. The fasting emphasises eating plain foods and _D_ from eating food that gives pleasure: In many cultures, this means no meat, dairy, or eggs - which may not be eaten again until Easter. Although in modern times, many people make pancakes, they are unlikely to give up meat and dairy for 40 days; however, people may give up sweets and chocolate during this period.
In the UK, Pancake Day is a much-loved tradition. Some parts of Britain celebrate the day with pancake races. The oldest and most famous is held at Olney in Buckinghamshire. The race is run over 415 yards by women aged sixteen or older. They must _E_ their pancake in the frying pan at least three times during the race. The winner receives a kiss from the Pancake Bell Ringer – church bells were traditionally _F_ to remind parishioners to come to confession – and a prayer book from the vicar.
The date of Pancake Day is dependent on that of Easter, a moveable feast based on the cycles of the _G_. The date can vary from as early as 3 February to as late as 9 March.
Match the words to their correct place in the text. Only use the numbers - do not type in the whole word.
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Did you get them all correct? Do you have any questions about the text? Do you have a similar tradition in your country?
Link: Culture Lesson 'Guy Fawkes Night'
