MMMM...deep-fried dough with cream filling and topped with sugar. Yes, please! Fat Tuesday is coming and that means it time to fill up. Fat Tuesday is March 1, 2022. 

What is Fat Tuesday?

Fat Tuesday is the traditional name for the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent in Christian churches. Fat Tuesday is also know as Mardi Gras, which is simply Fat Tuesday in French. In Michigan, Fat Tuesday is also know as Paczki Day.

Why 'Fat" Tuesday?

On the last day before Lent, historically, many Christians would have the Sacrament of Confession followed by one last feast before the Lenten fast. During Lent, Christians were not allowed to eat meat, milk, cheese, butter, eggs, and animal fats.

Therefore to prevent food waste, these items had to be used before Lent began. This is how these yummy, Polish, seasonal pastries known as paczki began.

There is a bit of Polish superstition that plays into the day. It’s been said that if you don’t indulge in paczki on Fat Tuesday, you could face bad luck for the rest of the year. So we better get at it...

Where Can You Find A Great Paczki?

You'll be able find Paczki's at Meijer, Walmart, Costco, Fresh Thyme and many grocery stores, but to truly experience this morsel, Michigan.org recommends these places.

 Southwest Michigan

SWEETWATER’S DONUT MILL – BATTLE CREEK

This award-winning shop is a must-do no matter the season. With homemade donuts in a wide range of flavors, there’s something for everyone at Sweetwater’s.

SARKOZY BAKERY – KALAMAZOO

With fresh bread, ham and cheese croissants, donuts and Paczki this shop stocks a range of baked goods.

West Central Michigan

SANDY’S DONUTS – GRAND RAPIDS

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Locals will tell you that Sandy’s serves up the best donuts in the city and Paczki come Fat Tuesday.

RYKE'S BAKERY – MUSKEGON

Ryke’s serves a full range of baked treats from cakes and cookies to Paczki.