Evanston Bakery Hosts Annual Paczki Eating Contest

Bennison's Bakery raises funds for Alzheimer's Association in memory of longtime contest emcee

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Bennison's Bakery in Evanston, Illinois hosted its 15th annual paczki eating contest on February 14, 2026. Twelve teams competed to see who could eat the most of the traditional Polish pastries in five minutes, with the winning team of Teddy Delacruz and Tim "Timmy" Brown taking home a $200 cash prize. The contest was held in memory of Steve "The King" Bartlebaugh, the original emcee who passed away from Alzheimer's disease last year, and all proceeds from the event were donated to the Alzheimer's Association.

Why it matters

The paczki eating contest has become a beloved annual tradition in the Evanston community, celebrating the Polish heritage of the pastry while also raising funds for an important cause. The event honors the memory of a local figure who was integral to the contest over the years, highlighting the bakery's commitment to supporting its community.

The details

At the contest, each of the 12 teams received a tray of 30 paczki in unique flavors like lemon cream, apricot, blueberry, and chocolate custard. Contestants raced against the clock to see who could eat the most in five minutes, with the winning team of Teddy Delacruz and Tim "Timmy" Brown consuming the most. All participants received a free t-shirt and $25 bakery gift card, while the winners took home a $200 cash prize.

  • The 15th annual paczki eating contest was held on February 14, 2026.
  • The contest is traditionally held on or around Mardi Gras, the final day of indulgence before Lent.

The players

Bennison's Bakery

A local bakery in Evanston, Illinois that has hosted the annual paczki eating contest for the past 15 years.

Teddy Delacruz

The winner of the 2026 paczki eating contest, competing for the fourth year in a row and securing his second victory.

Tim "Timmy" Brown

Teddy Delacruz's teammate, who helped the duo win the 2026 paczki eating contest despite becoming ill during the competition.

Steve "The King" Bartlebaugh

The original emcee of the paczki eating contest for many years, who passed away from Alzheimer's disease in 2025. The 2026 contest was held in his memory.

Helene Shapiro

Steve Bartlebaugh's wife, who spoke about the Downer family's support during his illness and the decision to donate contest proceeds to the Alzheimer's Association in his honor.

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What they’re saying

“We won, but we should have done better. Instead of worrying about [Timmy], I should have just kept eating. I slowed myself down.”

— Teddy Delacruz, Winning Contestant (chicagotribune.com)

“The [Downer family] helped us bring medicines to Steve, getting me things to bring to where he was; they were always helping. So when he passed, they decided it should be the Alzheimer's Association, honoring Steve. It's kind of like a final goodbye, or a continuation of his memory.”

— Helene Shapiro, Wife of Steve Bartlebaugh (chicagotribune.com)

“Long live the King!”

— Family Members of Steve Bartlebaugh (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

The Bennison's Bakery team is already planning for next year's paczki eating contest, which will continue to honor the memory of Steve "The King" Bartlebaugh and raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association.

The takeaway

The annual paczki eating contest at Bennison's Bakery has become a beloved community tradition that celebrates local culture and heritage while also supporting an important cause. The event's continued success, even after the passing of its longtime emcee, demonstrates the bakery's commitment to its customers and the Evanston community.