International Pancake Day Hall of Fame

Every Shrove Tuesday since 1950

Pancake Day is always on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. Some people refer to it as “Fat Tuesday.”

International Tradition…

Liberal has held a friendly competition with Olney, England over 70 years. International Pancake Day, A tradition since 1950, is always on Strove (Fat Tuesday). The women of Liberal and Olney square off in a fun, fast-paced race to the finish line carrying skillets with pancakes inside. The International Pancake Day Hall of Fame sits right on the finish line of the race and offers visitors a glimpse of the rich history of the event.

The Sweet Story Behind International Pancake Day!

Most of us have forgotten a jacket or our keys when rushing out the door. But on Shrove Tuesday in 1445, a housewife in Olney, England, forgot to leave her frying pan behind! Startled by the church bells, she dashed to service—pancake still sizzling in her skillet—and accidentally sparked a tradition spanning centuries.

During World War II, British pilots training at the Liberal Army Airfield brought stories of this quirky custom with them to Kansas. But the tradition truly found its local spark in 1949. R.J. Leete, a dedicated Liberal Jaycee, was flipping through a magazine when he came across an article about the Olney race. Remembering the connection the wartime pilots had brought to town, a bold idea was ignited.

The world was still healing from the war, and R.J. saw a chance to build a bridge of peace. He didn’t just sit back—he took action. By challenging the Vicar of Olney to a friendly international competition, he turned local folklore into a global legacy.

In 1950, the International Pancake Day Race was officially born.

Today, this 77-year bond of peace comes alive every Shrove Tuesday at exactly 11:55 a.m. In both Liberal and Olney, apron-clad women square off in a fast-paced, 415-yard sprint. To honor the 1445 legend, runners must wear a traditional skirt, headscarf, and apron, flipping their pancake at both the start and the finish line.

The race concludes right at the International Pancake Day Hall of Fame, where visitors can glimpse over seven decades of this rich history. Whether you’re racing or cheering, you’re part of a tradition that proves even a simple pancake can bring the world together. Let’s show Olney our spirit and keep the tradition fast and friendly!

It’s a testament to history, community, and a whole lot of fun. Come experience this incredible tradition!

This one of a kind festival starts with, of course, a pancake breakfast, followed by children’s, and men’s race before the main event. A Shriving Service, live web chat with England and a parade round out the days happenings..

Saturday

Pancake Chase 5K Run

Eating & Flipping Contests

Monday

Grand Marshall’s Reception

Tuesday

Pancake Breakfast

Breakfast Program

Youth Races

Mascot Race

Men’s Pacer Race

International Pancake Day Race

Shriving Service

Live Video Conference Call with Olney England

Pancake Day Parade

The International Pancake Day Hall of Fame

What began as a dream in the late 1900s officially became a reality in 2004-2005: the International Pancake Day Hall of Fame! This vibrant space is a living tribute, constantly evolving with exciting improvements on the drawing board. It proudly houses a rich collection of Pancake Day memorabilia, stretching all the way back to the very first race in 1950 right up to today’s events.

More than just a museum, this building serves as the Corporate Headquarters for International Pancake Day of Liberal, Inc., transforming into “command central” for our annual event every Shrove Tuesday.

Our mission is clear: to preserve a vital part of Liberal’s 66+ year history and joyfully share it with both our local and regional communities. We’re also dedicated to developing a versatile facility that can be enjoyed by civic and community groups for gatherings, and serve as an engaging educational venue for our elementary school students.

Come experience the legacy and future of Pancake Day!

Step into the Sweet History of International Pancake Day! Located right at the finish line of the legendary International Race at 318 N. Lincoln, the International Pancake Day Hall of Fame invites you to relive decades of this unique tradition!

On the ground floor, browse captivating displays of past event memorabilia and cherished gifts from our sister city, Olney, England. You can even snag official Pancake Day merchandise to take a piece of the excitement home!

Head upstairs to the second floor where you can get an insider’s view, watching thrilling videos of past races and flipping through historical scrapbooks compiled over the years.

While not always open, your personal journey through Pancake Day history awaits! Call the Hall of Fame at 620-624-6423 to arrange your special tour or meeting. Come feel the spirit of the race!