Candlemas in those countries is also considered the day of crêpes.[18] Tradition attributes this custom to Pope Gelasius I, who had pancakes distributed to pilgrims arriving in Rome.[19] Their round shape and golden color, reminiscent of the solar disc, refer to the return of spring after the dark and cold of winter.[20] Even today, a specific symbolism can be associated with preparing the crêpes. A tradition is to flip the crepes in the air with the right hand while holding a gold coin (such as a Louis d’or) or some other coin in the left hand to have prosperity throughout the year. One has to ensure that the pancake lands properly back in the pan.[19]
As a (non-catholic) German I have literally never heard of such a thing, neither of the tradition nor of a thing called candlemas. I love the idea to make it a dedicated crêpe day though and celebrating the arrival of spring is always a good thing. So count me in next year!