Catch the Tradition: How to Celebrate Port Fish Days this Weekend

 

You're coming to Fish Days to celebrate Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Fish? Fin-tastic!

Full Event Lineup

This annual Port Washington tradition started way back in 1964, and it has been drawing crowds to the lakefront ever since. Always the third weekend in July, what was once Fish DAY has now evolved into a three-day festival of Fish DAYS incorporating popular local traditions that took place more behind-the-scenes in years past. Get full details on the festival at portfishday.com. 

NOTE: With the air quality concerns the next two days, please stay up-to-date on changing conditions. There are many INDOOR bars and restaurants in walking distance should you need a break or if you prefer to celebrate indoors. The American Legion is across the street from Veterans Park, and Cavelier Wine Bar and Inventors Brewpub are very nearby. 

FISHGIVING - Thursday, July 16

For the veterans and seniors, this evening includes the standard fish and chips and cold beverages, along with a visit from Elvis and tunes continuing with Advance Band. All events are taking place at Veterans Park and the Port Washington Bandshell. 

FISHMAS EVE - Friday, July 17

The traditional day for high school and family reunions in Port Washington, the now-official Fishmas Eve celebration is an Alumni Night, welcoming back Port Washington natives for a night of fish, drinks, music, and fun. All events are taking place at Veterans Park and the Port Washington Bandshell, though festivities often carry on to local establishments like Sir James Pub, Inventors Brewpub, and Schooner Pub downtown, to name a few. Get your crew together for a traditional Fishmas Eve!

FISH DAY - Saturday, July 18

This is the BIG DAY! Arrive early to find parking in the public lots downtown or along the streets. Check out the County Lot off Main Street for weekend spots. 

Pro tip: Take a shuttle! Catch one from Hollander Chocolate and the Ozaukee County Justice Center on Spring Street or the 1-43 Park and Ride on the northside of Port Washington. They are FREE and easy to hop on and off! Get more info on shuttles. 

Join in the fun of the 5K Run, Walk, and Roll benefitting Portal, Inc. Watch the city's largest annual parade proceed down Wisconsin Street, Franklin Street, and Grand Ave. Judging of floats takes place on the 100 block of Franklin Street. Grab a spot early for best viewing. Downtown is the prime location, though the route extends up the hill to Dodge Street and all the way to Milwaukee Street, near Tello's and Rascals. Walk to the festival grounds in Veterans Park, Upper Lake Park, and Rotary Park for lakeside music, food (including fish and chips, of course!), and drinks. Families, there are extra fun activities for the whole family in Upper Lake Park during the day and at Rotary Park for the Little Guppies Time. Plus, boogying down in Rotary Park means you will be in prime viewing for the Fireworks at dusk. Want to watch the Fireworks in VIP style? Head to Inventors Brewpub for prime upper deck viewing and drink specials! Or get a spot at Schooner Pub's second floor all-season patio or The Beacon's West Slip patio seats. 

Added Fish Days fun

The Fish Days fun doesn't stop at the park. Local businesses have concocted fish-themed drinks and dishes (pictured are fish drinks from Beanie's Mexican). You can also score some custom o-FISH-al merchandise from Port's Cozy Corner on Franklin Street.