Today is Shrove Tuesday, a day when tradition allows us to eat as many pancakes as humanely possible. Historically this was because pancakes are made out of sugar, fat, flour and eggs – foodstuffs which were restricted during the ritual fasting associated with Lent.

However, these days most people eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday simply because they're flippin' delicious. From pancake eating competitions to pancake races, make sure you have a brilliant Pancake Day in Bristol with our top five events. And don't forget to vote for your favourite filling in our poll (see left). If you're planning on celebrating Shrove Tuesday at home tonight, click here for the perfect pancake recipe.

Annual Pancake Eating Competition at The White Bear, Clifton

For the third year running, The White Bear is inviting 30 competitive eaters to come together, stuff their faces and chase the prestigious crown of Mr or Mrs Pancake 2012. This year's winner will also take home a £50 cash prize, a trophy, a dinner for two at the White Bear and a bottle of bubbly. Entry is just £3, to register a spot for the event, which takes places from 8pm tonight, email hamish@whitebear-bristol.co.uk. For more info click here. Have you got what it takes?

Pancake party at Arts Westside, Old Market

It doesn't official open until next month, but today new community café Arts Westside is welcoming local pancake fans in for a sneak preview.

The latest venture from The Trinity Centre, this volunteer-led, not-for-profit arts café will be selling delicious freshly-made pancakes from 11am to 6pm. Arts Westside, at 6 West Street in Old Market, is set to open on March 31.

Free pancakes at Wai Yee Hong, Eastville

Fancy something a bit different from lemon and sugar on your pancakes? Family-run Chinese supermarket Wai Yee Hong is giving away free pancakes today with any purchase of duck and sauce. Hello crispy duck pancakes…

Pop-up pancakes in Montpelier

Lovely James and Gill are opening their front room for a pancake-themed pop-up restaurant for one night only on Wednesday February 22. BYOB with a suggested £5 donation. Spaces are limited so please call ahead on 07888 762565 to book a place.

The Great Easton Pancake Day Race

If your pancakes can give others a run for their money, here's your chance to prove it in the Great Easton Pancake Day Race. With a comedy housewife fancy dress theme, races will meet today outside The Sugar Loaf pub on St Marks Road at 7pm. Bring a pancake and your lucky frying pan!

Are you hosting a Pancake Day event in Bristol? Leave a comment and let us know.

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