Paczki: The Sweet Polish Tradition Arrives Early In 2026

I know we just celebrated the birth of our savior two weeks ago, but I have a surprise for you fellow Catholics anticipating Fat Tuesday and the beginning of Lent in a few weeks - The Paczki have arrived early in 2026.

My wife and I made our post-New Year's Day shopping trip to our local Market 32 in Torrington over the weekend, and as we walked through the bakery department I heard those magic words that make everyone of Polish heritage tingle - "Oooh! The Paczl's are back!"

Photo by Large Dave

What are Paczki? A deep-fried doughnut, filled with a sweet jam or jelly, powdered or glazed. Paczki were born in Poland during the Middle Ages, and were traditionally eaten on Fat Thursday, the last Thursday prior to Ash Wednesday. In America, the Polish communities in Detroit, Western Massachusetts, New Britain, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Milwaukee started the tradition of Paczki Day taking place on Fat Tuesday. It's basically the last day for Christians to enjoy decadent treats before abstaining through the Lenten season.

Market 32 has a new Paczki in their lineup this year, offering a Strawberry creme version. The one you see in the photo above is the traditional creme-filled powdered sugar, and there are also plum, blueberry, and raspberry varieties available.

In the past few years we've tried the Paczki from Market 32, Big Y, The Market-Bantam, Stop & Shop, and Shop Rite. Our two favorites have been Market 32, and Big Y. Here we come New Britain, Roly Poly is next on my hit list.

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