King Cake Sales Kick Off at Picayune Pastry Shop

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PICAYUNE, Miss. - As Mardi Gras season approaches, the excitement is already building with king cakes becoming a hot commodity in south Mississippi. For many families, this festive treat has become an essential part of their annual tradition.

Julie Douglas, a resident of Madison, Mississippi, recalls her childhood experiences during Mardi Gras. “As a kid in school, we would get out of school several days for Mardi Gras,” she said. “That was so special. We would go to the parades, but my favorite part was always the king cake.”

Families across the region are turning to Paul’s Pastry Shop in Picayune to satisfy their cravings for king cakes. Serita Spears, a long-time employee at the shop, has been involved with Paul’s for about 35 years. Denise Bales, another regular customer, has been visiting the shop since around 1985. She even ships a king cake to her sister in Missouri every year.

The Thigpen family has been making king cakes for over 50 years, and this year's first batch hit the shelves on Friday afternoon. Sherri Thigpen, the owner of Paul’s Pastry Shop, shared that this time of year is the busiest for the business. “It is definitely the busiest time of the year for us, and let me tell you that we are so grateful,” she said. “We just opened up today and tomorrow for a soft re-opening for the beginning of the year. Tuesday, we will start king cakes with a couple thousand a day and getting those out to all the little homes they need to go to.”

Thigpen added that the pastry shop will produce nearly 70,000 king cakes throughout the Mardi Gras season. This impressive number reflects the growing demand for these beloved pastries.

Whether people prefer sweet or savory flavors, the king cake is a symbol of the approaching Mardi Gras celebrations. At Paul’s Pastry Shop, customers can enjoy a variety of options, including savory king cakes available on Saturdays throughout the season. Flavors such as boudin, spinach, and artichoke are among the popular choices.

A Tradition That Brings People Together

King cakes have become more than just a treat; they represent a cultural tradition that brings families and communities together. From the excitement of the parades to the joy of sharing a slice of cake, Mardi Gras is a time filled with celebration and connection.

For many, the arrival of king cakes marks the official start of the festivities. It's a moment that evokes nostalgia and creates new memories for generations. Whether it's a simple slice at home or a large cake shared with friends, the experience is deeply rooted in the spirit of Mardi Gras.

The Business Behind the Celebration

Paul’s Pastry Shop plays a significant role in keeping this tradition alive. With its long history and commitment to quality, the shop has become a staple for locals and visitors alike. The team at Paul’s works tirelessly to meet the demands of the season, ensuring that every customer gets a taste of the magic that comes with Mardi Gras.

In addition to the traditional sweet versions, the shop offers innovative twists on the classic recipe. The savory options provide a unique alternative for those who want to try something different while still embracing the spirit of the season.

A Season of Joy and Connection

As the Mardi Gras season begins, the community comes together in a shared celebration of culture, food, and tradition. King cakes are a central part of this experience, serving as a reminder of the joy and togetherness that define the holiday.

For many, the journey of obtaining a king cake is just as important as the cake itself. Whether it's a visit to Paul’s Pastry Shop or a homemade version from a family recipe, the act of sharing a king cake reinforces bonds and creates lasting memories.

With the arrival of the first king cakes, the anticipation for Mardi Gras is palpable. The season promises a mix of parades, parties, and, of course, plenty of king cakes to enjoy.