Since being formally installed in February 1939, the Seal Beach Lions, has grown into one of the most active forces in Seal Beach.
Under first President John C. “Frosty” Felts, the group focused on youth activities, from sponsoring sports teams, a Boys Club, girls and boys scouting activities, Easter Egg hunts, and kids matinees at the Bay Theatre and more.
Over the years the Lions have grown to over 240 members, the largest in California, and their support has included installing dozens of benches around town, student speaker contests, Teacher of the Year awards, free eye examinations, graffiti removal, monument restoration, donating a clock at the pier, and playing key roles in moving and restoring the Centennial House and the repair and renovation of the Red Car.
The Lions also host numerous large events in Seal Beach, including the annual Arts & Craft Faire, Home Run Derbys, and their famous pancake breakfasts held before the car show and the Rotary Fishing Derby.
Probably their best-known activity is the annual Fish Fry which the Lions first hosted in August 1945, serving 297 dinners. Recent Fish Frys have served almost 7,000 meals and over 13,000 drinks.
Almost equally popular is the annual Main Street Christmas Parade which started in 1979. Originally providing support to the Seal Beach Business Association, the Lions role has grown to assuming main responsibility for the event which has grown from that first parade of 23 entries marching up and down Main Street, to more than 100 entries and 3,000+ participants.