Today is Fat Thursday in Poland, a traditional day of gorging on paczki donuts prior to lent. Paczki aren't a completely unfamiliar site to Tom and I. Living in Chicago we would hear of this tradition over the years, especially with the large number of Poles living there.
While out walking Charlie this morning it seemed like everyone I passed was caring a bundle of fresh donuts. Tom was warmed by his colleague in Southern Poland that it was assumed that being the manager, he would be the one bringing the warm donuts into the office. And, that it was crucial that he order the donuts in advance. So, he did just that with the help of a very kind co-worker. : )
Wikipedia defines "Fat Thursday" (Tłusty czwartek) as a traditional Polish, Greek and German feast marking the last Thursday before Lent and is associated with the celebration of Carnival. Because Lent is a time of fasting, the next opportunity to feast would not be until Easter. It is similar to, but should not be confused with, the French festival of Mardi Gras ("Fat Tuesday"). Traditionally it is a day dedicated to eating, when people meet in their homes or cafés with their friends and relatives and eat large quantities of sweets, cakes and other meals forbidden during Lent. Among the most popular all-national dishes served on that day are pączki , fist-sized donuts filled with rose marmalade, and plum jam, topped with lots of powdered sugar.
It's fun learning about the Polish traditions and partaking in them. Although, we won't be taking part in this one 100% since neither Tom nor I like jelly donuts. I hear that next week is Women's Day in Poland...a day devoted to celebrating how great women are....I think this one is a must to celebrate. ; )
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