The Optimist Club of Perdido Bay is set to host the 38th-annual Labor Day Mullet Festival on Monday, Sept. 2, at the Lillian Community Club, promising a day of family-friendly activities, food, and fun. This signature event serves as the club’s primary fundraiser, supporting its mission to "Bring Out the Best in Kids."

Festivities will kick off at 7:15 a.m. with a ceremonial presentation of the colors by American Legion Post 48, setting the tone for a day packed with events that cater to all ages.

The day’s activities will start with a 5K Run/Walk, with registration available online at www.OptimistClubPB.org or in-person at 6 a.m. on Labor Day. The race begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by a One Mile Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. Winners will be celebrated at the Runner/Walker Party with awards presented for top performances.

Early risers can enjoy the annual Optimist Breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m. The hearty meal, priced at $5 with free meals for children eight and under, includes scrambled eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, fruit and drinks.

Throughout the day, attendees can explore the Silent Auction, Déjà Vu Market and Bake Sale, which will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Silent Auction will feature gift cards, curated baskets and unique items, while the Déjà Vu Market offers a variety of gently used treasures. The Bake Sale is a must-visit for those looking to purchase homemade treats.

One of the festival’s most anticipated events, the Mullet Toss, will take place from 10 a.m. to noon, with age-level prizes awarded at 12:30 p.m.

Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring a choice of fish or ham, hushpuppies, beans, potato salad, dessert and tea, all for $12. As with breakfast, children eight and under eat free. During lunch, Big Jake will provide lively music, creating an atmosphere perfect for singing and dancing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day will conclude with the 50/50 Drawing at 2:15 p.m. Participants do not need to be present to win.

The festival is not just a celebration but also serves as a vital fundraiser for the Optimist Club of Perdido Bay, which provides approximately $10,000 in grants to local schools and organizations that support children and teens. The club’s initiatives include a weekly reading program at Elberta Elementary, participation in the Willie Nell Evans Thanksgiving Lunch for Baldwin County Special Needs students and Christmas gift delivery to special needs students at area schools.

In addition, the club sponsors numerous community events, including “Breakfast with Santa,” the annual Lillian Christmas Parade, Trunk-R-Treat and an Easter Egg Hunt and fishing rodeo. It also hosts annual Essay and Oratorical contests in local schools, presents Educator of the Year awards and supports the Baldwin County Special Olympics.

The Optimist Club’s dedication extends to providing scholarships for the Flight Academy at NAS Pensacola and the HOBY Leadership Program, as well as offering the Law Appreciation Program, which honors officers and provides scholarships to their family members.

For more information about the festival or to get involved, contact Dodd Bouchillon at (256) 280-6346.