For many in the lake Country area, Friday fish fries are a time honored tradition. Many restaurants run specials for the weekly event all year long. Fish fries are typically found in areas that have numerous bodies of fresh water, and the lakes and rivers all throughout Lake Country are no exception. Statewide, Wisconsin has around 15,000 lakes meaning that it has become a huge part of the state’s culture.
Governor Tony Evers issued a proclamation this week declaring Friday, March 7, 2025 “Friday Fish Fry Day”. The proclamation addresses several key aspects of how the Friday Lenten tradition has impacted Wisconsin’s culture throughout the years. Evers listed several key components for making a traditional version of these dinners including “Beer battered or deep fried fish, coleslaw, rye bread, tartar sauce, and a lemon wedge”.
Evers’ “Friday Fish Fry Day”, is a way to commemorate how something as simple as a meal can bring an entire community together. It is a celebration of “Restaurants, supper clubs, bars, taverns, church basements, community centers, and businesses that host weekly fries.”
This Friday, fish fries are expected to be found all throughout the region. Some local spots hosting fish fries this week include Park Avenue Pub in Pewaukee, Boozhag’s Clubhouse in Nashotah, Boondock’s in Oconomowoc, and Bryant’s On the Round in Okauchee.
Fish fries have been ingrained in Wisconsin’s culture for decades. For many early German and Polish immigrants, the Catholic tradition of not eating meat on Fridays allowed for fish fries to skyrocket in popularity. Eventually, the Catholic Church changed this rule to only apply during the season of Lent. Another major factor in the rise of the Wisconsin fish fry was the Prohibition era. In the 1920s, alcoholic beverages were outlawed by the federal government. For many Wisconsin businesses such as breweries, bars, and taverns, this was a shocking blow to their livelihood. It also hurt the communities, as they lost many community social spaces. The solution came in the form of fish fries. The Friday night traditional drew people together and allowed bars to become restaurants in order to continue serving their clientele.
As Governor Ever puts it, the fish fry is a “Cherished Friday night tradition.” Perhaps the best way to celebrate the Governor’s proclamation is to brave the last bits of winter and celebrate the special first Friday in Lent with a tasty fish fry.
