PC: Fox 11 Online
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Fish fry Fridays have long been a time-honored tradition in Wisconsin, but this Friday, it was an “oh-fish-ial” holiday.
Gov. Tony Evers declared Feb. 16, 2024 as “Friday Fish Fry Day” throughout the state. In his proclamation, he noted Wisconsin “boasts thousands of restaurants, supper clubs, bars, taverns, churches, community centers, and businesses that host weekly fries.”
The classic fish fry is a significant part of Wisconsin’s food culture. Although every establishment’s platter varies, the staple is almost always beer-battered and deep-fried perch, walleye, haddock, cod or bluegill with some sort of potato side. Enhancements generally include coleslaw, a slice of rye bread and a variety of condiments, especially tartar sauce and a lemon wedge or two.
Fish fries are deeply rooted in Wisconsin history, dating back to when Catholics of German and Polish descent first settled here in the 1800s.
WHEREAS; as a large population of Catholic European immigrants settled in Wisconsin in the nineteenth century, the need for a meat alternative on Fridays during Lent became prevalent across the state, helping to establish the Friday night fish fry tradition…
Also spurring the popularity of the fish fry was Prohibition, when selling plates of fish became a way for Wisconsin’s taverns and breweries to stay afloat financially.
Wisconsin’s close proximity to lakes and rivers with a variety of fresh water fish options has also contributed to the lasting prevalence of the Friday night fish fry.
WHEREAS… Friday night fish fries bring together family, friends, and neighbors to share in an iconic Wisconsin meal and tradition and to support local businesses and industries; and WHEREAS; today, the state of Wisconsin joins fish fry enthusiasts across the state in celebrating this cherished Friday night tradition…
For more information on the history of the Friday fish fry in Wisconsin, click here.
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