Rudy's Strudel Kicks Off Annual Paczki Party at 5 a.m. on Fat Tuesday

Cleveland bakery hosts lively celebration with music, dancing, contests, and 31 flavors of the Polish pastry.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Rudy's Strudel in Parma, Ohio is hosting its annual Paczki Party starting at 5 a.m. on Fat Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The event features live music, dancing, contests, giveaways, and over 30 flavors of the traditional Polish pastry paczki, including a special collaboration with Malley's Chocolates.

Why it matters

Rudy's Strudel's Paczki Party is a beloved annual tradition in Cleveland's Polish Village neighborhood, drawing crowds of locals and visitors alike to celebrate the indulgent pre-Lenten treat. The bakery's commitment to the community and Polish heritage helps preserve an important cultural ritual.

The details

The party kicks off at 5 a.m. with a DJ, confetti, and a bubbly toast. Outside, beer from Immigrant Son Brewery and coffee from Travelin' Tom's Coffee truck will be available. Inside, shoppers can enjoy an immersive experience created by Ingenuity Cleveland, including a giant Paczki Box photo op. Emcee Brandon Baxter will lead trivia, raffles, and a paczki eating contest, followed by live polka music from Tom Mroczka and the Music Box starting at 8 a.m. Rudy's will offer 31 flavors of paczki, including a special Malley's Chocolate Toffee variety.

  • The Paczki Party starts at 5 a.m. on Fat Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Live polka music begins at 8 a.m.

The players

Rudy's Strudel

A beloved bakery in the heart of Cleveland's Polish Village neighborhood in Parma, Ohio, known for its traditional Polish pastries and annual Paczki Party.

Brandon Baxter

The emcee who will guide the crowd through trivia, raffles, and the paczki eating contest at the Rudy's Strudel Paczki Party.

Tom Mroczka and the Music Box

The polka band that will perform live music at the Rudy's Strudel Paczki Party starting at 8 a.m.

Malley's Chocolates

A local chocolatier that collaborated with Rudy's Strudel to create a special Malley's Chocolate Toffee paczki flavor for the event.

Immigrant Son Brewery

The brewery providing beer for the Rudy's Strudel Paczki Party.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Cleveland, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Brandon Baxter, Emcee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Rudy's Strudel's annual Paczki Party is a cherished tradition that celebrates Cleveland's Polish heritage and community, offering a festive pre-Lenten indulgence with live music, dancing, contests, and collaboration with beloved local businesses.