Freemasons from throughout Northeast Wisconsin gathered at Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay on Saturday, August 19th, for food, fellowship, and fun!
The event (dubbed the “Northeast Wisconsin Masonic Picnic”) was largely organized by the Beja Shriners but included Brothers from ten area Blue Lodges.
A large pavilion near the world-famous “Zippin Pippin” – a wooden roller coaster which was one of Elvis’s favorite rides – was secured and brats, hot dogs, and hamburgers were grilled. The meal also included a variety of picnic staples, including salads, chips, fruit, and desserts.
Brothers and guests spent the windy afternoon talking and laughing amongst themselves, reacquainting with friends they hadn’t seen in a while and meeting new ones. Others played corn hole or other outside games together.
Additionally, as part of the experience, the Shriners had also purchased a large number of ride tickets for the guests who gathered. For those unfamiliar with Bay Beach, it’s a municipal amusement park and outdoor vendor which first opened in 1892. Situated near the mouth of the Fox River into the “Green Bay” area of Lake Michigan, it was also a main train depot for the Green Bay area for many years and has even hosted such famous figures as President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In more recent days, it’s become home to 23 amusement park rides that can be ridden for 1-4 tickets per ride; tickets cost 25 cents each, making it an affordable, family friendly venue.
Everyone remarked how great of a time they all had together – and plans are in the works for another gathering next year.
Photos courtesy of Beja Shriners Facebook page
