Chamber Links: news and updates | | June 25th, 2025 | Volume 7 Issue 6 | | This Newsletter is Powered by Catalyst Member | | | | |
It's time to celebrate Water Ski Days this week!
From concerts to carnivals, and car shows to craft fairs, Lake City's signature summer event always elates locals and entertains thousands who visit our city for the festival.
This year, we've expanded our water ski programming to include a new thrill show and jump competition to add to our slate of Ski Dox show team performances.
We hope to see you out this weekend!
For a downloadable schedule of events click here
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Huge Lakeside Concerts
presented by
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Matt Stell
with Aaron Simmons and Bryan Anderson
June 28th 7pm - 12am
(Ohuta Beach Park)
MULTI-PLATINUM artist Matt Stell has quickly made his mark on Country with two back-to-back chart-toppers: 2X PLATINUM “Prayed For You” and PLATINUM “Everywhere But On.” While massing over half a BILLION on-demand streams, Stell has stacked high-profile TV appearances with Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Bachelor in Paradise, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. He’s also performed the national anthem for major NASCAR and NFL events. He’s toured Miranda Lambert, Old Dominion, and Chris Young. Stewartville, MN native and Nashville up and comer Aaron Simmons opens. Bryan Anderson rounds out this awesome 3 band bill.
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Rhino
with Strange Daze
June 27th 6pm-12am
(Ohuta Beach Park)
Rhino is a next-level, four-piece band that redefines what a live show should be. Based in the Twin Cities, they effortlessly blend genres—from alt-rock and ‘80s nostalgia to today’s hottest hits, with some unexpected country and surprises thrown in for good measure. Their performances are a full sensory experience, an invitation to vibe, dance, and lose yourself in the moment. Rhino creates a dynamic stage presence that keeps the crowd captivated from start to finish. Rhino doesn’t just perform—they curate an atmosphere where every song feels like an event.
Strange Daze opens.
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Johnny Holm Band
with Foster Grand
June 29th 5pm-10pm
(Ohuta Beach Park)
The most widely known and traveled acts in America, the Johnny Holm Band is one of the most entertaining shows today.
Surrounding himself with the finest musicians in the Midwest, Johnny rocks non-stop from the first song to the last laugh. Millions of people have seen Johnny over the years.
Ask anyone with a twinkle in their eye or a knowing smile about Johnny. They'll tell you all about the mayhem that masquerades as a rock and roll band!
Foster Grand opens.
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The Local Hooligans
and Lake Hits 95 Karaoke Finals
June 26th 5pm-10pm
(Ohuta Beach Park)
In a switch from recent years, the Lake Hits 95 Karaoke finals has moved to our free entry Thursday night festivities. The music kicks off around 5pm.
The Local Hooligans are a Goodhue County Based band, with local roots. The band was initially established in 2006 in Red Wing. They play a variety of Rock, Pop, and Country music from the '60's through today. The Local Hooligans are known for bringing the party and engaging the crowd! The bottom line is, this band prides themselves on performing music people love to hear and are honored to be offered a chance to play.
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Water Ski Events at Ohuta Beach Park
presented by
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Water Ski Show Team Performances!
Ski Dox have been delighting Water Ski days audiences for years. Expect to be thrilled as they perform barefooting, jaw-dropping jumps, and stunning pyramids, all designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Their strength and synchronization will create an exhilarating atmosphere, making this performance a highlight of the event that you won't want to miss! This year, 84-years-young stilt skier pioneer Glenn Sperry is joining them again as well. Shows at 3pm on Saturday 6/28 and 12pm Sunday 6/29.
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1st Annual Ralph Samuelson Jump Competition
Get ready for the inaugural Ralph Samuelson Freestyle Jump Competition! The event will start at 9 am on Saturday 6/28 and will feature 3 divisions: Men's, Women's, and intermediate.
Join us to witness high-flying jumps, thrilling spills, and numerous historic moments as skiers from across the USA compete for top placements and an array of prizes. This competition promises to be a remarkable celebration of waterskiing excellence while honoring Ralph Samuelson's enduring legacy.
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Ralph Samuelson Tribute Thrill Show
This ski show is a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable legacy of Ralph Samuelson, the true pioneer of waterskiing. Performers who have skied with the Tommy Bartlett, Cypress Gardens, and Seaworld teams are ready to amaze with their incredible skills. You'll be on the edge of your seat as they execute jaw-dropping water ski jumps and fearless barefooting. The elegance and grace of the girls on swivel skis will impress everyone, while the thrilling pyramids and death-defying aerial performances showcase the ultimate in athleticism.
Friday 6/27 at 5pm
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The USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation
"Get on the Water"
On Friday (6/27) from 10am-4pm the USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation will be hosting a free “get on the water” event featuring Betsy Anderson Gilman (world-renowned barefoot skier), and Melissa Larsen, Kasie Larson and Mackenzy Koehn (junior competitors). This clinic provides an amazing opportunity for young people to safely experience water skiing with competitive athletes in the sport.
| | More Water Ski Days Events | | | | |
Arts and Crafts Fair
Upwards of 100 artists, crafters, and vendors fill Patton Park with a plethora of unique items! You'll be sure to find what you are searching for at this one-of-a-kind event. Saturday 6/28 and Sunday 6/29, 9am-5pm on both days. Lake Hits 95's Ava LaRue broadcasts live from the Gazebo on Saturday from 9-11am!
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The Grand Parade
Lake City hosts one of the biggest parades in Southern Minnesota! Be treated to dancing horses, champion marching bands, and spectacular floats at this annual tradition. The parade begins at Lincoln High's football field and winds through town, passing Patton Park on its way to McCahill Ball Field. The Parade begins at 2pm on Sunday 6/29.
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Lions Club Car Show
Always a feast for the eyes, join the Lake City Lions Club at their annual car show at Lincoln High Football field! This is a southeastern Minnesota car show that should not be missed! See hot rods and more that will make you feel like a kid again. Saturday 6/28 from 7am-2pm.
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Tom the Creature Teacher
Tom Pederson, a retired teacher, from Lake City, gives presentations with live reptiles and amphibians. These programs are fun, interesting and very educational!
The presentation includes several types of frogs, lizards, turtles and snakes from around the world. Kids get the opportunity to touch a snake and a tortoise.
People that have seen this program have come away with an appreciation for these interesting animals.
Sunday 6/29 at 11am in Ohuta Beach Park.
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Gold Star Amusements
Gold Star Amusements, a family-owned carnival, has provided safe family entertainment for over 30 years! They're back this year with their fun midway that includes rides, games, and tasty treats! Presale ride tickets are going fast, but if they are still in stock, you can find them at Lake City Fresh Market and Kennedy Drug until their closing times on Thursday.
*Just confirmed: $25 Wristbands for rides will be available on
Friday 6/27 from 5pm - 9pm and Sunday 6/29 from 12pm - 8pm
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Don't forget about Lake City Market by the Lake, Knight Barry's Water Ski Days Volunteer Appreciation Party, Rotary's 5k, 10k, Half-Marathon, Lake City Area Arts Bingo, Fresh Market Bean Bag Tournament, the Kid's Coin Hunt, the lighted boat parade, Historical Society open house and tours, book sales, and more!
Click the image below for a downloadable and printable full schedule of events!
| | Water Ski Days is Made Possible Through the Generosity of our Sponsors and Volunteers! | | | | |
