Chamber Links: news and updates | | June 25th, 2026 | Volume 8 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're continuing our expanded water ski programming with the thrill show and jump competition as well as 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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Drew Baldridge
with Aaron Simmons and Foster Grand
June 27th 6:30pm - 12am
(Ohuta Beach Park)
Drew Baldridge is a country singer-songwriter who has spent 15 years building his career in Nashville while staying rooted in the values of farm, faith, and family. After early momentum and then setbacks in the industry, he chose to bet on himself—self-funding music, rebuilding his fan base through hundreds of independent shows, and ultimately breaking through with his Chart-topping Platinum hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” which helped establish him as a leading independent voice in modern country. Baldridge has penned more than 500 songs, with cuts by Bailey Zimmerman, LOCASH, and Chase Matthew. His touring résumé includes runs with country heavyweights Eric Church, Cody Johnson, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan.
Stewartville, MN native and Nashville up and comer Aaron Simmons opens. Foster Grand rounds out this awesome 3 band bill.
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Rhino with Fire at the Falls
June 26th 7pm-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. Fire at the Falls opens.
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Skitzo Fonik
June 28th 6pm-10pm
(Ohuta Beach Park)
Stitzo Fonik caters their 3½ hour show to performing Fun Current and Timeless Pop, Rock, & Dance Hits. Aside from performing in the area's hottest nightclubs, they routinely perform for other occasions around the surrounding 5 state region. State Fairs, local county fairs, casinos, major sporting events (NFL, SB LII, MN Vikings, NBA, Final 4, MN Twins, etc.). No stage is too large for this band, and audiences of all ages will enjoy their experience at a Skitzo Fonik show!
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The Local Hooligans
and Lake Hits 95 Karaoke Finals
June 25th 5:30pm-10pm
(Ohuta Beach Park)
The Lake Hits 95 Karaoke finals moved to our free entry Thursday night festivities. The music kicks off around 5:30pm.
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 5pm on Friday 6/26 and 12pm Sunday 6/28.
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2nd Annual Ralph Samuelson Jump Competition
Get ready for the second Ralph Samuelson Freestyle Jump Competition! The event will start at 9am on Saturday 6/27 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 globe 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.
Produced by Legacy Skis
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Ralph Samuelson Legacy Thrill Show
This ski show is a 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.
Saturday 6/27 at 5pm
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The USA Water Ski and Wake Sports Foundation
"Get on the Water"
On Friday (6/26) 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 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 6/27 and Sunday 6/28. Lake Hits 95's Ava LaRue broadcasts live from the Gazebo on Saturday morning!
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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 6/28.
*Please note that due to street construction, the parade deviates from its usual course after it crosses Lyon Ave in 2026. See program for details.
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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 6/27 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 6/28 at 11am in Ohuta Beach Park.
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River Valley Marine Boat Demos
You can’t spell Water Ski Days without B-O-A-T-S!
Ok, that’s not quite true, but… boats are essential to what we do at our unique Minnesota festival.
This year we want to welcome our newest partner, River Valley Power and Sport as the Official Watercraft Sponsor of Water Ski Days!
Check out their boat demos at the Lake City Marina on Saturday 6/27 from 9am-5pm, as well as their halftime event between the Freestyle Jump Competition and Thrill Show on Saturday!
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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, get yours before Friday at Fresh Market, Kennedy Drug by Sterling, or the Lake City Chamber!
*Just confirmed: Unlimited Wristbands for rides will be available on
Friday from 5pm - 9pm, Saturday from 12pm - 5pm and Sunday from 12pm - 7pm. These will be sold by Gold Star vendors at the carnival.
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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, 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! | | Water Ski Days Hits Regional Groceries | | Thanks to a new partnership with Gillette Pepsi Companies and Mountain Dew, promotion for Lake City's Water Ski Days has been appearing on grocery displays, shelves, and coolers. This exciting new cross promotional tie-in puts our great festival front and center at stores throughout the whole region! | | | | |
