MARGATE – Lenny’s Hot Dogs, a favorite hangout in Margate during the late 1960s and early 1970s, made a comeback Saturday to help Lucy the Elephant celebrate her 139th birthday. This weekend also marks the 50th anniversary of Lucy’s historic move to her current location overlooking the beach at Decatur Avenue.

Visitors of all ages stepped up to purchase a hot dog, along with Lenny’s famous pepper hash, corn on the cob and sodas. Proceeds of the day’s events benefit Lucy’s ongoing renovations.

Mackie the Stilt walker and two elephant characters greeted guests. Under the big tent, volunteers sold commemorative T-shirts and anniversary coins, while children played mini-golf and cornhole in Lucy park.

The sounds of soft rock and jazz emanated from the front porch of the gift shop, where shoppers walked away with Lucy souvenirs.

The party goes on till 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 19.

Additionally, there is a dedicated “drive-by” lane on Atlantic Avenue where well-wishers can drop off a gift of cash for Margate’s favorite pachyderm.

And to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy’s historic move, the City of Margate will officially give the beach block of Decatur Avenue a new name – Lucy Plaza. The public is invited to attend a brief ceremony 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 20

Check out Lucy’s website at www.lucytheelephant.org on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram too.

 

Categories: Margate

Nanette LoBiondo Galloway

Award winning journalist covering news, events and people of Atlantic County for more than 20 years.