The Marblehead Lions Club’s popular Perch Festival had to be cancelled this year, but to continue its good works throughout the year, said President Tod Kelly, the Lions Club will focus on its annual raffle, which will be held on Aug. 22.

“Unfortunately, due to the persistence of the COVID-19 virus and to keep our club members and the community safe, the 28th Annual Lions Perch Festival has been canceled,” said Kelly. The raffle, however, will still be held on Saturday, Aug. 22.

The Lions Club will depend on the raffle as its main fundraiser for 2020. According to Kelly, the goal is to raise money from the raffle to give back to folks and organizations in need on the peninsula.

“Since the festival is our main money maker, we hope the community will purchase tickets for the opportunity to win exciting prizes,” he said. The grand prize this year is $2,020, and there is a long list of other prizes.

Finding a few raffle tickets, which are $1 and six for $5, is not a problem. The local retail shops all around the Marblehead Peninsula say they’re selling like hot cakes, though most everyone favors a perch sandwich or dinner. Lions Club members are also selling raffle tickets.

Proceeds will be used to support the Lions Club’s community outreach programs and benefit the Marblehead Peninsula. For more information, contact Tod Kelly at 248-765-0892 or todkelly35@yahoo.com.