In 1978 the Mercury Marine National Walleye Tournament was born in Fond du Lac with hopes to build a festival around it. Today, Walleye Weekend lures over 50,000 people to Lakeside Park with its extensive family entertainment, national, regional and local music acts, sporting events and many other attractions. All attractions and entertainment, admission and shuttles for the yearly celebration are completely free to the public. The success of Walleye Weekend can be attributed to the support of the community, local businesses and nonprofit organizations.  Net profits provided to participating organizations since 2012 total over $2,000,000.  Each year over 1,600 volunteers provide more than 13,000 volunteer hours across 50+ groups representing 35 organizations to make Walleye Weekend happen!