Fastnacht Day has always been a cherished tradition in my family, and it’s no surprise why — we come from a long line of Germans who know their way around a kitchen. In fact, a few of my ancestors brought their beloved fastnacht recipe across the ocean to Philadelphia, where they opened a German-inspired bakery in 1930. Still operating today in its original location at the corner of Barnett Street in the city’s Mayfair section, Haegele’s Bakery has become a local legend, renowned throughout Philadelphia for its German doughnuts only sold one day a year — Fat Tuesday.

Here is a sign posted at Haegele’s Bakery explaining the significance of Fastnachts and the religious meaning behind it:

I grew up looking forward to this tradition every year — seeing my cousins in their dirndls and watching family members take on new roles at the bakery. But when I moved to State College for college, I struggled to find a Fastnacht that came close to the ones I grew up with.

That changed when I met a lovely local couple who shared my appreciation for Fastnachts and understood the value of tradition. After chatting for a while, Virginia and Jim mentioned the best spot in town for Fastnachts. As she started to scribble down directions to their favorite Amish Market, I couldn’t help but suggest, “Why don’t we go together?”

So that Fat Tuesday I met Virginia at the Amish Market, about 30 minutes from Penn State’s campus. We enjoyed the freshest Fastnachts and swapped stories like we had been friends for years. Naturally, we couldn’t stop there — whoopie pies and chocolate milk were also a must.

That day spent with Virginia may have been a simple gesture, but it left a lasting impact, and she’s had a special place in my heart ever since. She offered me a sense of home during a time when I felt so far from it. We still keep in touch, whether it’s through Facebook or texting back and forth to keep  each other updated with our daily lives. Time and distance may have passed, but we’ve somehow managed to hold on to that little piece of tradition and help it grow even bigger, together.

I am forever grateful for this new-found friendship and Fastnacht memory. Now it is time to get them a Haegele’s Fastnacht!

— Emily Gladu, administrative coordinator