Paczki Day Crowds, Primary Results and Old World Wisconsin Expansion Lead Milwaukee Headlines

Milwaukee is starting the week with a mix of sweet traditions, political developments and a look ahead to a major cultural milestone.

Paczki Day Draws Big Crowds Across the City

Lines formed early at bakeries across Milwaukee as residents celebrated Paczki Day in full force. National Bakery locations on 16th Street, as well as shops in Brookfield and Greenfield, reported steady traffic as customers stocked up on the traditional filled pastries.

Other longtime favorites joined in, with local Polish bakeries and community centers marking the day with music, food and plenty of neighborhood pride. For many families, the annual tradition is as much about gathering together as it is about enjoying a box of paczki before Lent begins.

Primary Election Results Shape Local Races

Voters across Milwaukee and Waukesha headed to the polls for nonpartisan primary elections, narrowing the field in several closely watched local contests.

School board and county-level races saw competitive turnouts, setting up matchups for the spring general election. The results are expected to influence decisions on education funding, public safety priorities and future development across the metro area.

Old World Wisconsin Announces Welcome Center Opening

Old World Wisconsin also shared big news this week. The living history museum will open a new welcome center as part of its 50th anniversary celebration on July 4, 2026.

The upgraded entrance is designed to improve visitor flow and expand exhibit space, marking a significant investment in one of southeastern Wisconsin’s most popular heritage attractions. Local tourism leaders say the addition could draw even more visitors to Waukesha County and the greater Milwaukee region during the busy summer season.

Sources

https://www.wisn.com/article/milwaukee-customers-flock-to-national-bakery-for-paczki-day/70395305
https://www.tmj4.com/news/milwaukee-county/milwaukee-celebrates-paczki-day-with-sweet-tradition-and-local-pride
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-primary-election-results-see-who-advances-in-waukesha-milwaukee-area-r
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/old-world-wisconsin-welcome-center