Baltimore Bakeries Sell Out of Paczki on Fat Tuesday

Polish-style donuts filled with fruit or custard are a local Fat Tuesday tradition.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Bakeries in the Baltimore neighborhoods of Highlandtown and Fells Point were busy on Fat Tuesday fulfilling orders for paczki, a Polish-style donut filled with fruit or custard. Many of the bakeries sold out of the popular pastries as residents celebrated the pre-Lenten tradition.

Why it matters

Paczki have become a beloved Fat Tuesday tradition in Baltimore, rivaling the popularity of beignets in New Orleans. The high demand for the pastries highlights the city's diverse food culture and the importance of local, independent bakeries in preserving regional culinary customs.

The details

Paczki are essentially Polish-style donuts that are filled with fruit or custard. Bakeries across Baltimore's Highlandtown and Fells Point neighborhoods reported brisk business on Fat Tuesday as customers sought out the popular pastries to celebrate the pre-Lenten holiday. Many bakeries sold out of paczki early in the day as demand exceeded supply.

  • Fat Tuesday was celebrated on February 18, 2026.

The players

Highlandtown

A neighborhood in Baltimore known for its Polish heritage and culinary traditions.

Fells Point

A historic waterfront neighborhood in Baltimore that is home to many local bakeries and restaurants.

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The takeaway

The high demand for paczki in Baltimore showcases the city's vibrant food culture and the importance of local, independent bakeries in preserving regional culinary traditions. As more national chains have entered the market, these neighborhood bakeries continue to be hubs for celebrating Baltimore's diverse heritage.