National Pancake Day History

National Pancake Day in September is a celebration of the beloved breakfast food. Also known by names like griddle cakes and hotcakes, pancakes have a history that stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of them being made in ancient civilizations. They became a traditional part of celebrations like Fat Tuesday, enjoyed before periods of fasting. While pancakes are often served for breakfast, they are also a popular choice for supper.

The observance known as National Pancake Day in September has roots dating back to 2005, when it was initially called Lumberjack Day. The creators sought an excuse to enjoy pancakes and waffles. This day has evolved into a broader celebration of pancakes, with different regions and cultures having their own variations, such as the thin European crepes or Indonesian 'serabi'. In recent years, IHOP, the International House of Pancakes, has also held its own version of National Pancake Day, often linked with charitable initiatives.

Observing National Pancake Day in September offers numerous possibilities. Many choose to visit their favorite diners or restaurants, which may offer special promotions or free pancake deals. Others prefer to celebrate at home by preparing pancakes with family and friends, experimenting with different recipes and toppings. It's a versatile day where pancakes can be enjoyed at any meal, from breakfast to dinner. National Pancake Day in September occurs annually on the 26th of the month.

Top 10 Facts for National Pancake Day in 2026

• The September 26 observance originates from a 2005 holiday initially created as 'Lumberjack Day' by Marianne Ways and Colleen AF Venable, who later rebranded the occasion to honor pancakes.
• This specific September date provides an alternative to the movable, charity-focused 'National Pancake Day' promoted annually by the International House of Pancakes (IHOP), which typically occurs earlier in the year.
• Pancakes represent one of the oldest known breakfast foods, with evidence suggesting that early versions of this batter-based dish have been prepared for more than 30,000 years.
• Many culinary historians consider pancakes to be a potential contender for the title of the oldest breakfast food in human history.
• The dish is known by various regional and historical names, including flapjacks, griddle cakes, hotcakes, and johnnycakes.
• Pancakes have left a mark in literature and pop culture, having been referenced by iconic figures such as the playwright William Shakespeare.
• The versatility of the dish allows it to be served as a 'breakfast for dinner' meal, a tradition that has become a popular way for families to observe the day.
• Modern celebrations frequently involve the creation of 'pancake art,' where enthusiasts use batter to design intricate shapes or images on the griddle.
• The global variety of the dish is vast, ranging from traditional buttermilk stacks in the United States to unique international versions like Swedish Blodplätter, which incorporates pork blood.
• The record for the highest pancake toss currently stands at 31 feet and one inch, illustrating the competitive and playful spirit often associated with pancake-themed celebrations.

In the News and Trending for National Pancake Day

Top things to do for National Pancake Day

• Gather your closest friends and head to the nearest diner to enjoy some delicious pancakes.
• Host a pancake race. Each participant holds a pan with a pancake and must race to the end without letting it slip out. If it does slip out, they must return to the beginning and start again.
• Try flipping a pancake as fast as you can. The world record is held by Brad Jolly who flipped a pancake a total of 140 times in one minute.
• Attempt to make pancake art. Using a squeeze bottle and your favorite pancake mix, try making a portrait of a celebrity or cartoon character.