Today is National Pancake Day and the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) is celebrating by giving away free short stacks.

The restaurant hopes that by offering the free pancakes, it will get people in the door and give a donation to the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

This is the eighth year that IHOP has participated in the event that has raised millions for the purpose of supporting charity organizations.

"Since the inception of National Pancake Day in 2006, IHOP has raised more than $10 million and given away more than 14 million pancakes to support charities in the communities in which it operates," read a statement on IHOP's website. "On Feb. 5, 2013, for the eighth consecutive year, guests from around the country will once again celebrate National Pancake Day at IHOP and enjoy a free short stack of Buttermilk pancakes."

Every year, IHOP has a goal that the restaurant tries to achieve and this year it hopes to raise $3 million.

IHOP served four million free pancakes on National Pancake Day in 2012, and pancake lovers donated more than $3 million to children's charities, according to ABC News.

So just how many pancakes did the restaurant give away last year?

The Boston Globe reported that IHOP gave 4 million pancakes to customers and noted that if all the cakes were stacked together they would stand almost 16 miles high.

It is safe to assume that giving away free pancakes is a sure way to get people in and hopefully open their wallets.

For hungry customers looking to partake in the annual pancake give away but do not know where the closest restaurant is can take a look at IHOP restaurant locations.

Most locations will offer the short cake deal until 10 p.m. so act fast, but be prepared to wait in line as the event is sure to bring in crowds looking for free pancakes.