Bakeries Prepare for Paczki Day

(WFRV) Tuesday is Fat Tuesday, or if you're Polish - Paczki Day.

At Smurawa's Country Bakery the front door is locked and the lobby dark, yet in the back the pace is hectic - as hundreds of dozens of paczki are prepared for Tuesday.

"It's a big deal for Polish people, a big deal for Catholics," said Greg Smurawa. "It has become a day everyone can celebrate, everyone can have fun with, whether at home or work. It has become a holiday for everyone to partake in."

For 18 years Smurawa has been creating these mouthwatering treats - packed with various crème and fruit fillings.

"I guarantee it is a paczki like you've never tasted before," Smurawa said.

The day before Paczki Day this bakery doesn't rest - as the pastries are shaped, fried and filled. The phone keeps ringing; orders are made; and orders are filled.

"I keep getting a lot of calls from people surprising friends in Poland," said Samantha Smurawa, who is helping her father by taking phone orders. "It's cool to be a part of it all."

At 5 a.m. Tuesday morning, as the bakery reopens and polka music plays, long lines of customers will form to buy paczki by the dozen. Smurawa says if you're coming - you'll be served. 

"Our goal is to make sure we never run out."

But you might be a bit late for work. Should that be the case Smurawa suggest you buy an extra dozen for co-workers

"On Paczki Day you are never late when you bring paczki," said Smurawa.