Washington Island airport, 2P2 is special for a lot of reasons, one of which is that for the last 70 years, the local Lions Club has hosted an annual Whitefish Boil. The well-loved event draws scores of airplanes to land on what RAF Director Jeff Russell calls, “its two generous turf runways that are always in remarkable shape.” Both are a bit over 2,200 feet long and can accommodate a variety of aircraft. “A testament to the smoothness of the turf is the regular use of the airport by amphibious floatplanes,” Russell says.

The Lions Club understands the value of this community asset, ideally located on the beautiful Door County peninsula that separates Lake Michigan from Green Bay. To enjoy its many surrounding tourist opportunities, they have provided a number of courtesy bicycles. It’s easy to access the nearby villages and sample the hospitality and variety of the local stores and restaurants. If you prefer, right next to the airport is beautiful Schoolhouse Beach with crystal clear water and an unusual beach of round limestone rocks. 

The RAF will feature this spectacular recreational destination in time for its most popular season, but in the meantime, consider putting the 71st annual Washington Island Whitefish Boil on your calendar, the third Saturday in July. Fly in for this flaming Scandinavian traditional community meal of fresh-caught whitefish, onions, potatoes, and corn, topped with a slice of Door County cherry pie!

Submitted November 29, 2023
By Carmine Mowbray