Fat Thursday is one of the most anticipated holidays in Poland, which begins the last week of carnival. It is a day when tradition dictates that people eat primarily doughnuts and angel wings. When is Fat Thursday? In 2025, Fat Thursday will not fall until February 27, so lovers of these sweet treats still have some time to prepare.
The History of Fat Thursday
When is Fat Thursday and what is its history? Fat Thursday has its roots in pagan traditions that date back to ancient times. It was celebrated as a holiday associated with saying goodbye to winter and welcoming spring. At that time, in Rome, doughnuts prepared in a savory way, with the addition of fat and meat, were eaten. Over the years, in the 16th century, doughnuts began to be filled with sweet fillings and sprinkled with sugar, just as they are baked in the current form of this delicacy.
Since when is Fat Thursday in Poland?
In Poland, the tradition of Fat Thursday appeared in the 16th century, but for a long time it was celebrated mainly in larger cities. It was not until the end of the 19th century that this holiday began to be celebrated more widely among rural communities. In the past, Fat Thursday was celebrated over several days, not just on one Thursday, as is the case today.
When is Fat Thursday ?
The date of Fat Thursday is flexible and depends on the date of Easter. It usually falls between January 29 and March 4. In 2025, Fat Thursday falls on February 27.
When is Fat Thursday? Calendar for 2025
| Month | Day | Event |
| February | 27 | Fat Thursday |
| March | 4 | Herring (shredded) |
| March | 5 | Calcine |
Traditions related to Fat Thursday
Culinary rituals
Fat Thursday is primarily a time for enjoying sweets. On this day, Poles usually take out their confectionery accessories and fry doughnuts, which are traditionally filled with rose jam and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Faworki, also known as chrusty, are another popular delicacy that must appear on every table.
Superstitions and beliefs
In Poland, there are many superstitions related to Fat Thursday. One of them is the belief that anyone who does not eat a doughnut on this day will have to deal with misfortune for the entire year. As a result, many people try to eat at least one doughnut to ensure their good fortune.
How and when is Fat Thursday celebrated in other countries?
Fat Thursday is not just a Polish holiday. Many countries around the world have their own traditions associated with this day.
When is Fat Thursday in the UK?
In the UK, Fat Thursday is celebrated on the last Tuesday of Carnival, known as Pancake Day. Instead of doughnuts, the British feast on pancakes, which are served with a variety of toppings, such as jam, fruit, or maple syrup.
When is Fat Thursday in Germany?
In Germany, Fat Thursday, known as Schnotziger Donnerstag, is a time for boisterous parties and festivals. There are no special requirements for food on this day, but the key element is the fun and parades.
When is Fat Thursday in France?
The French celebrate Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), which falls on the last day of Carnival. On this day, thin pancakes, called crêpes, are served, which are often served in restaurants and pastry shops.
How to prepare for Fat Thursday?
Selection of donuts
When preparing for Fat Thursday, think about which doughnuts you want to eat. Traditional rose doughnuts are just one of many options. Nowadays, there are a variety of fillings available, such as chocolate, caramel, and even vegan versions.
Faworki and other sweets
In addition to doughnuts, there are also faworki, which are a great addition to a sweet table. They can be served with powdered sugar or with cinnamon.
Nutritional value of donuts
How many calories do doughnuts have?
Donuts, although delicious, are quite high in calories. On average, one donut contains from 400 to 600 kcal, depending on the filling and preparation method. When it's Fat Thursday , let's not be afraid of the kilocalories - it's only one day of the year!
Alternatives to traditional donuts
In recent years, healthier versions of doughnuts, such as those baked in the oven or gluten-free, have become increasingly popular. This means that everyone, regardless of their diet, can enjoy this holiday.
What are some interesting facts about Fat Thursday?
Donut records
In Poland, around 100 million doughnuts are eaten every Fat Thursday. This is an incredible number that shows how much Poles love this delicacy.
Fat Thursday and other holidays
Fat Thursday is often compared to other food-related holidays, such as Śledźik or Popielec. Each of these events has its own unique traditions and rituals that are worth learning about.
Donuts around the world
In different countries around the world, doughnuts take on different forms. In the United States, doughnuts are popular, often covered in icing and sprinkled with colorful sprinkles. Italians, on the other hand, have their "castagnole," which resemble our doughnuts but have a different consistency and flavor.
When is Fat Thursday? Fat Thursday, February 27, 2025, is the perfect opportunity to spend time together with loved ones. It is a day that combines tradition with joy and fun, and doughnuts and faworki are an inseparable element of it.
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