Crepe Day

What Is Crepe Day?

The 9th, 19th and 29th of every month are "Crepe Day" in Japan. The day was established by Monteur Co., Ltd., which makes and sells a range of cakes and sweets. The date comes from the shape of the numeral 9, which resembles a rolled-up crepe.

Chosen by Shape, Not by Sound

Where most Japanese commemorative days pick a date through wordplay, Crepe Day was decided by how the number looks. The curl of a 9 was likened to the cross-section of a rolled crepe.

• Established by: Monteur Co., Ltd.
• Origin of the date: the numeral 9 resembling a rolled crepe
• Which days: the 9th, 19th and 29th -- every date containing a 9
• Purpose: to make crepes a more everyday treat and spread their appeal

Originally a Regional Dish from Brittany

Crepes are said to originate in Brittany, in northwestern France, where savory buckwheat galettes are distinguished from sweet wheat-flour crepes. In Japan they spread mainly as a snack rolled around cream and fruit.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Look for crepes in the dessert case at a convenience store or supermarket
• Try frying a thin batter with what you have at home
• Compare a sweet crepe with a savory galette
• See whether any shop near you features crepes on 9-days

Finding Meaning in the Shape of a Number

The slightly far-fetched thought that "a 9 looks like a crepe" produced an anniversary that comes around three times a month. On a hectic December 29, it is as good an excuse as any to stop for something sweet.