Mardi Gras is going to come up awfully quickly this year — the day before Valentine’s Day! That’s a lot of holidays to have to think about all at once, so maybe it’s best to ensure that you will have the sweet Mardi Gras (Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday, Paczki Day) treats in hand now. I’ve never been to Mardi Gras, though I love New Orleans, and I don’t know that I really want to go because it seems a bit too people-y for me. But I’m super happy to have my own little celebration in my house.
Martinelli’s Market Bakery & Deli and Pekara Bakery & Bistro have opened up pre-orders for Fat Tuesday treats, and they will have items in store, including King Cake and Paczki from Central Illinois Bakehouse, as well as purple, green and gold Fleur de Lis cookies.
From February 10-13 both stores will have some festive specials: jambalaya, muffaletta, and bread pudding with a bourbon glaze.
Martinelli’s Market Bakery & Deli
500C Market Street
Champaign
M-Sa 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Su 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pekara Bakery & Bistro
811 W Springfield
Champaign
Tu-Sa 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Su 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.