Port Lions decide to hold festival after considering Covid-19 risks

 Port Washington’s annual Lions Fest and Lions Fishing Derby on the city’s lakefront will go on as planned this weekend despite the coronavirus.

That doesn’t mean there won’t be a few changes to the festival — which runs from Friday, July 31, to Sunday, Aug. 2 — to deal with the pandemic.

Organizer Dave Mueller said the fishing registration booth has been moved to the parking lot behind Fat Boys Bait and Tackle to give the festival a little more space so people can socially distance themselves.

The stage has also been moved to increase the space for those attending, Mueller said. 

The tables will be spaced out, he said, and he will be monitoring the number of people coming and going.

“We will stay within the guidelines of the (Washington) Ozaukee County Health Department,” Mueller said.  

Those working at the festival will wear masks, he said, but they aren’t required of guests.

“It is an outdoor venue,” Mueller said. 

Hand sanitizer will also be available.

“I can’t ease everyone’s fears,” Mueller said. “I know there are many people who want to go and many people who don’t want to go to the festival. 

“I’m not going for the most people we can jam in the grounds. It will be a good time, but on a smaller scale than in the past.”

The festival offers food, beverages, raffles and music. 

Shut the Front Door will play modern and classic rock, pop and country from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, while Left on Sunset will play a wide variety of covers from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday. On Sunday, Mozart’s Cadillac will play classic country and rock from 1 to 5 p.m.

The 46th annual fishing derby, which runs Saturday and Sunday, offers a $1,200 grand prize, a total based on the number of tickets sold. The tickets are $25 and may be purchased at Fat Boys, The Bait Box and the Port Washington marina office.