Costa Mesa fish fry will cook up start to summer

Visitors to the the 68th annual Fish Fry and Carnival at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa this weekend can munch on deep-fried fish and other food, listen to live music, enjoy carnival games and rides, and enter their tots in a baby contest.

The $10 fish dinners include French fries, coleslaw and fish fried using a secret batter recipe.

“You see old friends once a year, and it’s nice to have people reconnect and catch up,” said event co-chairman Mike Scheafer, commonly referred to as “Mr. Fish Fry.”

Scheafer, who serves as the vice president of the Costa Mesa-Newport Harbor Lions Club board, said he has helped coordinate the event for close to two decades. He first started serving dinners alongside his father, Shorty Scheafer, in the 1960s.

In the annual baby contest, children ages 6 to 24 months will be judged on beauty, personality and overall appearance. Parents may enter their child up until the contest begins. Three winners will be announced, and all babies will be honored for participating.

“The fish fry is special for two reasons,” Scheafer said. “It’s a kick-off for summer, and it’s a tradition people love.”

The community gathering, which is one of the city’s largest events, is expected to draw 15,000 to 20,000 people and serve up to 3,500 dinners.

Over the years, the fish fry has raised more than $2 million for local schools, charities and clubs — including local Boys & Girls Clubs — through the Lions Clubs International.

“It’s just a fun event for the entire family,” said Scheafer, noting that a $1 discount on fish dinners can be printed out from the organization’s website. “It’s a great way to help raise funds for those in need.”

If You Go

What: 68th annual Fish Fry and Carnival

When: 5 to 9 p.m. Friday; noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: Fairview Park, off Placentia Avenue, south of Adams Avenue, Costa Mesa

Cost: Free admission; fish dinners are $10

Information: cmnhlions.com/fish-fry-2