ALLENTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) Bakeries across Pennsylvania were trying to keep up with the annual rush for Fastnacht donuts ahead of Ash Wednesday.
This year, Feb. 16 is referred to as many things including Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday for Mardi Gras or Fastnacht Day. Celebrated around the world in different ways. Here in eastern Pennsylvania, we eat donut, said Tom Thompson, owner of Mary Ann Donut Kitchen in Allentown.
Fastnacht Day happens the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent and fasting.
Watch as we explain the traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treats known as Fastnachts.
With one day to spare, people were pigging out while eating sweets and fat, things that many give up for Lent.
In Gaudy We Trust: Trump Issues Exec Order Mandating Classical Architecture On Fed Buildings US President-elect Donald Trump waves toward the media after meeting Martin Luther King III at Trump Tower in New York City on January 16, 2017. - The eldest son of American civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. m. US President-elect Donald Trump waves toward the media after meeting Martin Luther King III at Trump Tower in New York City on January 16, 2017. - The eldest son of American civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. met with US President-elect Donald Trump on the national holiday observed in remembrance of his late father. (Photo by DOMINICK REUTER / AFP) (Photo by DOMINICK REUTER/AFP via Getty Images)