News Summary
The Lion Club Fish Fry, a cherished community tradition in Costa Mesa, is set to celebrate its 77th year from June 27 to June 29 at Lions Park. This year’s festivities promise delicious Alaskan cod prepared with a secret batter, alongside a variety of food offerings. Admission is free, and the event will include live entertainment, a carnival, and numerous community activities, emphasizing its role in supporting local charities and fostering community spirit.
Costa Mesa – The annual Lion Club Fish Fry is returning for its 77th year, set to take place from June 27 to June 29 at Lions Park. This beloved community event will officially begin at 5 p.m. on Friday and continue until 10 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, with festivities extending from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.
Attendees can expect to enjoy approximately 1,100 pounds of Alaskan cod filets, which will be prepared using the club’s “secret recipe” batter. Each plate of fried fish will be priced at $15, complemented by an array of 42 cases of fries and coleslaw provided by Newport Rib Co. The frying of the fish will occur at the Newport Harbor High School kitchen in preparation for the event.
Despite having fewer than 24 active members, the Costa Mesa-Newport Harbor Lions Club successfully organizes this event with the help of numerous volunteers from local clubs, high schools, and various community organizations. The Fish Fry has its roots in 1946 when it was initiated to fund a new baseball field at Lions Park, and it has since transformed into a significant community festival.
Over the years, the Fish Fry has evolved, drawing attendance numbers that have reached up to 100,000 guests at past events. Activities and attractions have expanded to include parades, contests such as the Miss Fish Fry pageant, and raffle prizes. This year’s offerings will feature a beer and wine garden, vendor booths, live entertainment, and a full-size carnival complete with games and rides.
Besides the famous fish plates, attendees can also indulge in a variety of other food items including hot dogs, hamburgers, brats, funnel cakes, ice cream, and shaved ice. Admission to the Fish Fry will be free, with food, beverage, and ride tickets available for purchase on-site.
The importance of the Fish Fry extends beyond providing delicious food and entertainment. It serves as a fundraising event to support various charities and programs within the Costa Mesa community. Last year’s event saw approximately 3,200 fish dinners served over the three-day period, contributing to the local community’s welfare.
This event helps mark the beginning of summer activities in Costa Mesa and encourages community engagement among residents and visitors alike. Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens has been a regular attendee for 35 years, demonstrating consistent support for the event and the Lions Club.
For those looking for more information regarding this year’s Fish Fry, additional details can be found on the Costa Mesa Newport Harbor Lions Club’s website at cmnh-lions.com.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Fish Fry Carnival Returns
- Wikipedia: Costa Mesa
- OC Register: Cooking Up a Good Time with Costa Mesa Fish Fry
- Google Search: Costa Mesa Fish Fry
- Los Angeles Times: Costa Mesa Fish Fry Returns
- Google Scholar: Costa Mesa Fish Fry
- OC Register: Costa Mesa Fish Fry Has Last Hurrah
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Costa Mesa
- Los Angeles Times: Batter Up! Costa Mesa Newport Harbor Lions Prep for Fish Fry
- Google News: Costa Mesa Fish Fry
