Ok, so that's not the only purpose. Turns out, if your a good little Catholic, you'll know that February 2nd is Candlemass, a feast to commemorate the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of baby Jesus (Oh you're Catholic and didn't know that? Don't worry, me neither). In France, this holiday is called la Chandeleur, Fête de la Lumière, or Jour Des Crêpes.
Now I'm not sure exactly what crepes have to do with the Virgin Mary, but apparently this day is also a day to celebrate the oncoming of spring, which is why, I'm told, the crepes are so important, as they are symbolic of the sun, you know, being round and yellowish and all. (Note, it's also Groundhogs Day in the U.S.....so maybe some holiday crossover here with the oncoming of Spring idea?)
In any case, I wouldn't have known ANY of this had I not been invited to a crepe party hosted by my lovely French-speaking Belgium friends who couldn't let the day slip away without celebration.
Needless to say, with bellies full of crepes and smiles on our faces, the rest of the night was a smash hit.
Thanks Ann and Pierre!