Bakeries across Northeast Ohio celebrating Paczki Day

Rudy's in Parma and Kiedrowski's Bakery in Amherst are among the local businesses marking the Fat Tuesday tradition.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Bakeries across Northeast Ohio are getting in on the Fat Tuesday fun by celebrating Paczki Day. Rudy's in Parma and Kiedrowski's Bakery in Amherst are two of the local businesses cranking out the sweet treats and hosting special events for the occasion. Meanwhile, the warmer weather is raising concerns about ice jams and flood risks along the Chagrin River and Grand River.

Why it matters

Paczki Day is a beloved annual tradition in Northeast Ohio, with bakeries and residents coming together to indulge in the rich, fried pastries before the start of Lent. The warmer weather also poses a potential threat, as ice jams and rising waters can cause serious damage to homes and property in the region.

The details

Rudy's in Parma and Kiedrowski's Bakery in Amherst are both celebrating Paczki Day with special events and offerings. Rudy's is cranking out tons of the sweet treats, while Kiedrowski's has been celebrating the tradition since the late 1980s. The bakery will be open from 6 a.m. until they're done, and they'll have a polka band, giveaways, and more. Meanwhile, emergency crews have been monitoring conditions along the Chagrin River and Grand River, as the rising waters and bits of ice can cause serious damage to homes, cars, and other property.

  • Kiedrowski's Bakery has been celebrating Paczki Day since the late 1980s.
  • Kiedrowski's Bakery will be open from 6 a.m. until they're done on Paczki Day.

The players

Rudy's

A bakery in Parma, Ohio that is celebrating Paczki Day.

Kiedrowski's Bakery

A bakery in Amherst, Ohio that has been celebrating Paczki Day since the late 1980s.

Robert Gandee

The Willoughby Hills Fire Chief, who says the rising waters and bits of ice along the Chagrin River and Grand River can cause serious damage to homes, cars, and other property.

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What they’re saying

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This story highlights the beloved annual tradition of Paczki Day in Northeast Ohio, with local bakeries like Rudy's and Kiedrowski's Bakery going all-out to celebrate the occasion. However, the warmer weather also poses a potential threat, as ice jams and rising waters along the region's rivers can cause serious damage to homes and property.