Kids party on Shrove Tuesday

In the weeks before Christmas viewers know that they will be treated to endless stories of children’s parties hosted by all manner of public spirited sponsors. But Christmas is not the only religious observance that prompts people to break out the cupcakes and ideals. News Five’s Kendra Griffith reports on Shrove Tuesday.

Shawn Baird, Coordinator, Shrove Tuesday Party
“A lot of people are not familiar with this day, but this day has been in from I guess, from Jesus’ time. It’s the day before Ash Wednesday and on that day you can unwind and have fun, because after the fun comes forty days of Lent where you are supposed to be praying and fasting.”

Kendra Griffith, Reporting
But the members of St. John’s Anglican Cathedral did not celebrate by themselves and instead spread the joy by inviting almost two hundred students.

Shawn Baird
“We have this party where we invite the children from Stella Maris, who have special needs, and also from St. Peter’s in Orange Walk.”

The day featured entertainment by students of Queen Square and St. John’s Primary schools, as well as Ozzy the Clown.

Shawn Baird has been coordinating the Shrove Tuesday party for fourteen years.

Shawn Baird
“I solicited funds from friends and church members and I also approached a couple businesses and this is the result of it today.”

Before leaving the cathedral grounds, the children had their faces painted by Ozzy and received a plate of food, a party bag, and an ice cream. Kendra Griffith reporting for News Five.

Viewers should note that the day before Ash Wednesday is also referred to as Fat Tuesday and signals the last day of pre-Lenten celebrations like Carnival and Mardi Gras.