Brooklyn Park Lions’ Annual Smelt Fry Runs April 23-25
The grass is greening, buds are blooming — and in Brooklyn Park — the smelt is sizzling.
It’s the time of year when the Brooklyn Park Lions Club hosts the 62nd annual Smelt Fry.
“I love my city. I love coming to this. Dipping fish in sauce and eating,” said Brooklyn Park Lions Club member Michael Wendt on the time-honored tradition.
Lions volunteers expect to go through nearly two tons, or 4,000 pounds, of smelt. Last year the smelt fry ended earlier than planned after the fundraiser ran out of the tiny fish.
The “World’s Largest Smelt Fry,” as it’s also known, is the Brooklyn Park Lions’ biggest fundraiser of the year
“We have people coming from all over the Midwest for this. It’s a special occasion for everyone,” said Mark Wendt, also a Lions Club member. “The funds we raise in here, every single penny goes right back out into our community, both local, state and nationally.”
Lions Club volunteers say some of the funds raised support a variety of local causes and activities including the Brooklyn Park Lions Drum and Dance Corps, the Brooklyn Park Ambassadors and city events.
“It is something you’re honored to do,” said Brooklyn Park Lions Club member Richard Post. “I’ll do it again next year, and the year after and the year after. It’s a great tradition.”
The Brooklyn Park Lions Smelt Fry runs tonight, Thursday and Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center.
Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 at the door. The cost is $10 for children 12 and under.
Brooklyn Park Lions Club volunteers gather to meet with CCX News before the Smelt Fry.
