Who doesn’t love pancakes? Whether you call them flapjacks, hotcakes, or griddle cakes, these golden discs of deliciousness deserve their own day of celebration. Luckily for us, they have one! National Pancake Day is just around the corner, and Stanton, KY, is ready to get its syrup on. Let’s dive into the history, the date, and how you can celebrate this batter-filled holiday in our charming town.
Pancakes Through the Ages: A Brief History
Pancakes have been flipping their way into our hearts for centuries. In fact, they’re one of the oldest breakfast foods in human history. Archaeologists even found pancake-like remnants in the stomach of Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,000-year-old mummy. Fast forward to ancient Greece and Rome, where pancakes were made with wheat flour, olive oil, honey, and curdled milk—sounds fancy, right?
In medieval Europe, pancakes became a pre-Lenten tradition. Shrove Tuesday (aka Pancake Day) was the last hurrah before fasting began for Lent. People would use up rich ingredients like eggs and butter by making—you guessed it—pancakes! This tradition spread across cultures and eventually landed in America, where pancakes became a breakfast staple topped with maple syrup or whatever your heart desires.
National Pancake Day, as we know it today, was popularized by IHOP in 2006 as a charitable event. Since then, it has become an annual celebration of all things pancake-y.
When Is National Pancake Day?
Mark your calendars! In 2025, National Pancake Day falls on Tuesday, March 4th. That’s 24 days away from now—plenty of time to plan your pancake feast.
Where to Celebrate in Stanton
If you’re in Stanton (or nearby), you’ve got some tasty options for celebrating National Pancake Day.
Located at S Sipple St, Bruen’s is a local favorite for hearty breakfasts. Their pancakes are fluffy and served with your choice of bacon or sausage. It’s a no-frills spot that feels like home. Stop by early to grab a stack before they’re gone!
- Hours: Typically open early morning until mid-afternoon.
- Pro Tip: Pair your pancakes with their biscuits and gravy for the ultimate Southern breakfast.
Just a short drive from Stanton, The Brick offers a cozy atmosphere and some of the best breakfast options near the Gorge. While they’re known for their breakfast burritos, their pancakes are worth every bite.
- Address: Near Campton Rd.
- Hours: Check ahead as hours may vary.
Make It at Home
Prefer to stay in? Whip up some pancakes in your own kitchen! Whether you go for classic buttermilk or experiment with chocolate chips or blueberries, making pancakes at home is half the fun. Don’t forget to stock up on toppings—maple syrup is a must, but fruits and whipped cream add extra flair.
How to Participate in National Pancake Day
1. Hit Up Local Restaurants
Support Stanton’s eateries by ordering pancakes from local spots like Bruen’s Restaurant or venturing out to nearby gems like The Brick or Red River Rockhouse. Many places offer specials for National Pancake Day—call ahead to check!
2. Host a Pancake Party
Gather friends and family for a pancake cook-off at home. Challenge each other to create unique flavors or even pancake art (yes, it’s a thing). Who can flip the fluffiest stack? Who can make the most creative design? Let the syrup flow freely!
3. Try IHOP’s Free Stack Deal
If you’re up for a short drive to Lexington or another nearby city with an IHOP location, you can score a free short stack on March 4th from 7 AM to 8 PM. In return, IHOP encourages donations to support children’s hospitals—a win-win situation!
4. Get Creative
Why stop at plain old pancakes? Try making:
- Birthday Cake Pancakes: Add sprinkles and top with icing.
- Savory Pancakes: Mix in cheese and herbs for a dinner-worthy twist.
- Pancake Pops: Make mini pancakes on sticks for easy dipping into syrup or chocolate sauce.
Fun Facts About Pancakes
- The largest pancake ever flipped measured over 49 feet across and weighed nearly three tons!
- Southerners eat more pancakes than any other region in the U.S.
- The world record for the highest pancake toss is 31 feet—think you can beat it?
So there you have it! Whether you’re dining out at Bruen’s or flipping stacks at home, Stanton has everything you need to make this National Pancake Day unforgettable. Grab your spatula and syrup—it’s time to celebrate.
Sources: journee-mondiale.com, awarenessdays.com, nationaltoday.com
Header Image Source: Andrijana Bozic on Unsplash
