PREVIEW: Allegheny Elks crown famous pierogi as Mardi Gras Queen

By Sean P. Ray | Managing Editor

*Editor's note: This story was updated on March 12 to correct a factual inaccuracy.

DEUTSCHTOWN — A hallmark of the Allegheny Elks’ annual Mardi Gras party is the crowning of a Mardi Gras King or Queen. This year, however, took a different turn, however, as the crowned royalty was not human, but a pierogi.

Jalapeno Hanña, one of the contestants at the Great Pierogi Race run at Pittsburgh Pirates games, was crowned during the Mardi Gras party on March 4. Described as a “feminist icon” during the ceremony, Hanña  is the first non-human to earn the crown from the Allegheny Elks.

The Great Pierogi Race is run after the fifth inning of Pittsburgh Pirate games at PNC Park. Hanña  is one of six pierogis who participate, the others being Sauerkraut Saul, Cheese Chester, Bacon Burt, Potato Pete and the highly intelligent Oliver Onion.

The Elks’ Mardi Gras party traditionally draws people from across Pittsburgh to attend, and this year was no different. The event sold out and the lodge was packed as visitors enjoyed drinks and traditional Mardi Gras food, including king cake.

Check out the April edition of The Northside Chronicle for the full story.