|
Save the Date! 65th Annual Nickle Dickle Day
Saturday, September 19th
For more than 65 years, Nickle Dickle Day has been a tradition that brings our community together and celebrates everything that makes Waconia special. From its beginnings as a downtown sidewalk sale in 1961 to the community celebration it is today, this event has only been possible because of the support of local businesses like yours.
Sponsorship Opportunities: When you become a sponsor, you're doing more than promoting your business—you're helping preserve a hometown tradition, supporting the Waconia Chamber's mission, and investing in a vibrant local business community. Your partnership helps make this event possible, and we couldn't do it without you.
We hope you'll join us in making this year's Nickle Dickle Day another unforgettable celebration for our community.
| |
Volunteer at Nickle Dickle Day
It takes an incredible team of volunteers to make Nickle Dickle Day a success, and we'd love to have you join us! Whether you're helping behind the scenes on Friday or welcoming guests on Saturday, your time makes a real difference in creating one of Waconia's favorite community traditions.
| | |
NEW THIS YEAR!
Youth Entrepreneurs Market
We’re bringing a Youth Entrepreneurs Market to Nickle Dickle Day, giving kids and teens ages 5-17 a chance to sell their products and experience what it's like to run a business.
| | |
Carver County Fair
August 12-16
Carver County Fairgrounds
501 W 3rd St, Waconia
It's almost time for the 5 best days of summer! Join friends, family, and neighbors at the Carver County Fair in Waconia for a week full of hometown fun, live entertainment, carnival rides, 4-H exhibits, animals, delicious fair food, and memories for all ages. Come celebrate this beloved community tradition and enjoy everything the Carver County Fair has to offer!
| | |
Chamber Booth at the Carver County Fair
TIMESLOTS STILL AVAILABLE!
Sunday, August 16 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Sunday, August 16 | 5:00PM-7:00PM
The Carver County Fair kicks off on August 12 and the Waconia Chamber is hosting a booth in the Carver County Commons building. The booth is staffed by chamber members and is a member benefit for you to utilize and promote your business!
Limited spots still remain! Click below to sign up.
|
| | A Message from the President | | |
Meet the Waconia Chamber Team!
Christine Fenner
President, Waconia Chamber of Commerce
We work in a relationship-based nonprofit organization with the mission of serving YOU, and your businesses and organizations. Our dynamic Chamber team works to live out our mission of supporting our businesses and enhancing the quality of life in the community.
As I enter into my 7th year in serving as the Chamber President, I continue to be grateful for our incredible business community. Waconia and the surrounding area continue to grow and since 2020, we’ve grown our chamber membership from 250 to 320 member businesses today. We’re thrilled to be able to expand our team and serve our membership by offering more programming and professional development opportunities; expanded business and education partnerships; networking opportunities; advocacy efforts; and community events that continue to draw customers, employees, and even future residents to our local businesses and community.
Intros: You may have noticed some new faces and shifts in job duties over the past year, so I wanted to take a minute to (re)introduce you to the group of talented women that make up the Chamber team. Continue reading...
| | Elections & Other Resources | | |
Lunch & Learn: The Power of Chamber Partnerships
Monday, August 3 | 12:00PM
Minneapolis Mart
10301 Bren Rd W, Hopkins
Join us during lunch for a practical conversation on how local chambers of commerce help build stronger businesses, make valuable connections, and facilitate engagement in the community.
Hear from chamber experts:
- Christine Fenner, President, Waconia Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
- Katie Welch Len, Owner/PR Consultant, Newsworthy Communications
- Eleece Pink, Owner, The Stash of Waconia
| | |
Elections & Voting
August 11th Primary Election
Access your sample ballot:
- Your official ballot will ahve the names of all your candidates for your precienct.
- To see a list of the names of candidates and questions that will be on the ballow for your precinct visit: mnvotes.gov/myballot
- You may request to have a free cipy of your sample ballot mailed to you.
Finding your Polling Place:
- Election Day is Tuesday, August 11th.
- You can find your Election day Polling Place by visiting: mnvotes.gov/pollfinder
Voting Before Election Day:
- You can vote early with an absentee ballet
- You can vote early by mail, in peron, or from the military or abroad.
Additional Election Information:
- Election Day Polling Places are open 7AM to 8PM
- If voting by mail, return your ballot no later than 5PM on Election Day.
- Election results will be available starting after 8PM on Election Day at: mnvotes.gov (election results)
Your county election official:
- Can mail you a sample ballot for free
- Keeps your voter registration record
Election Official: Kendra Olson
General Phone: 952-361-1941
Website: www.carvercountymn.gov/elections
Email: elections@carvercountymn.gov
| |
Elections & Voting
Early voting for the State Primary Election has begun. Waconia residents can absentee vote at City Hall Monday - Thursday from 7:30AM-4:30PM, and Fridays from 7:30AM-11:30AM. City Hall will also be open for Absentee voting from 9:00AM-3:00PM Saturday, August 8th and until 5:00pm and Monday, August 10.
Early voting for the 2026 General Election begins on Friday, October 16, 2026. City Hall will be open the following dates and times for absentee voting for City of Waconia residents only.
- Mondays - Thursdays: 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
- Fridays: 7:30 am - 11:30 am
- Saturday, October 24: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
- Tuesday, October 27: 7:30 am - 7:00 pm
- Saturday, October 31: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
- Sunday, November 1: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
- Monday, November 2: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
| | Ambassador Visits & Ribbon Cuttings | | |
Primary contact: Brian Kruschke
(952) 442-4411
waconiaford.com
brian@furymotors.org
The Chamber Ambassadors had a great time visiting with the team at Fury Ford Waconia. We learned more about their business, met some friendly faces, and got to check out the impressive fleet of vehicles they have to offer our community. Thanks for having us!
| |
| Good Day Express Car Wash | |
Primary contact: Bill Tschida
(952) 220-8744
740 Marketplace Drive, Waconia
gooddayexpressmn.com
bill@gooddayexpressmn.com
Good Day Express Car Wash was the next stop for the Chamber Ambassadors. It’s always a Good Day when meeting with this energetic and welcoming team. We’re thrilled to have them as a member of the Waconia Chamber and look forward to supporting one another for years to come.
| |
| The Waconia Farmers Market | |
Primary contact: Nicole Waldron
(952) 442-2707
224 W 1st St, Waconia
Facebook.com/waconiafarmersmarket
waconiafarmersmarket@gmail.com
The Chamber Ambassadors also visited with The Waconia Farmers Market! Every market day (Thursdays through mid-October) brings a great opportunity to shop local and connect with neighbors. We're so grateful for their partnership and commitment to the community.
| |
| |
We appreciate your support!
Thank you to all of our renewing members for your investment in the Waconia Chamber. We appreciate your support!
| | |
All Seasons Garment Care and Tailoring
Assured Cleaning Services
Havenwood Meats
KinnRidge Mobile Phlebotomy
Lakeside Books
Magnolia North
Mav City Restoration Inc.
| | |
Mediacom
New Creations Child Care & Learning Center
Nice Shirt Co.
Papa Murphy's
Shape It Up Fitness & Athleisure Boutique
Shop Chicks Co
The Kyra Group
| | |
Golf Scramble Recap
Thank you for making the 20th Annual Waconia Chamber Open - Stars, Stripes & Birdies: Celebrating 250 Years - a success! We were thrilled to welcome 38 teams to Island View Golf Club on Monday, July 13.
Proceeds of this event go to the operations of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, supporting our local businesses and community. All game proceeds on the course will benefit the Waconia Chamber Foundation, supporting workforce development, educational opportunities, and community development.
Big shout-out to all our event sponsors, donors, and volunteers! Your support helps make this event, and our Chamber's work throughout the year, possible. But the celebration doesn't stop there! Check out a few snaps from Jamie Joos Photography and the full team event photos below.
| | | | Best Dressed Team: Total Accounting Solutions | | |
Waconia Young Professionals Recap
The Waconia Young Professionals enjoyed a beautiful summer evening at the ballpark for a night of baseball, networking, and community connection. It was a great opportunity to meet fellow young professionals, build relationships, and enjoy time together!
Save the Date!
Join us for the next Waconia Young Professionals gathering on Thursday, August 25 for a paddleboarding excursion on Lake Waconia. More details coming soon — we hope to see you there!
| |
Introducing the Destination Waconia Podcast
We're so excited to launch something new! Clink the link below for the podcast dedicated to showcasing Waconia as a destination while preserving the stories and history that made our community what it is today.
Our first recorded episode dives into the rich history of Waconia though the eyes of Kim Mackenthun, fifth-generation grocer and community leader at Mackenthun's Fine Foods - Minnesota's Family-Owned Grocery Store since 1917. Kim's family has been part of the fabric of this town for over a century, and this conversation is a beautiful reminder of how local businesses, community, and resilience have shaped Waconia into a vibrant place.
Tune in to hear Kim's story, and watch for more episodes celebrating the people and places that make the Waconia community special.
| | Check out these short clips! | | | |
Now Hiring!
American Legion Post #150
4 E Main St, Ste 1, Waconia
Waconia American Legion Post 150 is looking for an energetic line cook to join our kitchen team for Thursday and Friday evening food service at the Waconia American Legion! Experience is preferred, but if you’re motivated and ready to learn, we’re happy to train you.
| |
Lakeside Farm and Flowers Opening!
Saturday, August 1 | 9:00AM-2:00PM
Lakeside Farm and Flowers
10405 MN-25, Cologne
We are excited to welcome you back to the farm! You-pick opening day is coming up and then starting Tuesday, August 4th, we will be open our regular summer hours. Remember to always watch for pop-ups when there is a surplus of flowers. We can't wait to see you!
Summer Hours:
Tuesday & Thursday from 9:00AM-12:00PM & 5:00PM & 8:00PM
Sundays 4:00PM-8:00PM
| | |
3rd Annual Eva Sophia Project Benefit Concert & Auction
Saturday, August 1 | 2:00PM-9:30PM
Wilkommen Park
13 Southeast 1st Avenue, Norwood Young America
Join the Eva Sophia Project for the 3rd Annual Better Together Benefit Concert & Auction on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Wilkommen Memorial Park in Norwood Young America, MN. Enjoy an incredible lineup featuring Jason Gray, Curtis Grimes, Jenn Bostic, and Mark Lee of Third Day, alongside food trucks, auctions, and family-friendly activities. Every ticket and bid helps create programming, community, and housing for adults with developmental disabilities. Grab your lawn chairs and help us build a future of belonging!
| |
Waconia National Night Out
Tuesday, August 4 | 5:00PM-7:00PM
City Square Park, Waconia
Join us for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4th, 5:00–7:00 PM at City Square Park in Waconia, featuring live music and $10 food tickets good at six local food trucks! Bring family and friends, and consider donating needed items to support Gather and Grow Food Shelf."
| |
Playoff Series Begins
Tuesday, August 4 | 7:30PM
Waconia Lions Field
927 Wildcat Wy, Waconia
The Waconia Lakers are ready to battle the Shakopee Indians in a best-of-five playoff series. With a spot in the next round on the line, every game is one you won't want to miss. Grab your friends, fill the stands, and let's cheer on the Lakers!
| |
Coffee Connection
Thursday, August 6 | 7:30AM-9:00AM
River Valley Behavioral Health & Wellness Center
1309 Oak Avenue, Suite 208, Waconia
Network and connect! We'd love to hear what's new with you and your business. Coffee Connection offers a perfect opportunity to explore the benefits of Waconia Chamber membership and connect with local professionals before becoming a member. We'd love to meet you! Coffee and a light snack will be served. No need to register. Stop in for as long as your schedule allows.
FREE! Hope to see you there!
| |
The Waconia Farmers Market
Thursday, August 6 | 4:00PM-7:00PM
Downtown Waconia
224 W 1st St, Waconia
Shop local at the Waconia Farmers Market! From farm-fresh produce and delicious baked goods to handcrafted gifts and beautiful flowers, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Gather your family and friends for a fun evening of shopping, exploring, and supporting the local vendors who make our community so special! The market runs Thursdays throughout the summer from 4:00-7:00PM.
|
1860s Baseball at the Pederson Farm
Saturday, August 8 | 1:00PM-3:00PM
Historic Andrew Peterson Farmstead
8060 Minnesota Highway 5, Waconia
Take a step back in time at the 1860s Baseball Game! This free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to spend the day with family and friends. Bring your own chairs or blankets for lawn seating and enjoy classic ballpark favorites like peanuts, Cracker Jacks, popcorn, and ice-cold beverages. All proceeds and donations support the Historic Andrew Peterson Farmstead. Don't miss this unique community tradition!
|
Live Music at Uproot Cafe
Sunday, August 9 | 1:30PM-3:00PM
Uproot Cafe
44 West 1st St, Waconia
Support two exciting newcomers to the Waconia community! Stop by Uproot Cafe, one of downtown's newest businesses, for an afternoon of live music featuring Minneapolis artist Sylvia May. With a soulful voice and a growing following, Sylvia is an up-and-coming performer you won't want to miss.
Grab a coffee, relax in the cozy atmosphere, and help welcome both a talented local musician and one of Waconia's newest gathering places!
Be sure to follow Uproot Cafe on socials to stay up to date on their upcoming events. Along with live music, they host a Book Club on the first Sunday of every month and have a variety of community events planned throughout the year. There's always something new brewing at Waconia's newest café!
Store Hours:
- Monday: 7:00AM-5:00PM
- Friday: 7:00AM-5:00PM
- Saturday: 7:00AM-6:00PM
- Sunday: 7:00AM-6:00PM
| |
Women's Connect: Let's Do Lunch
Monday, August 10 | 11:30AM-1PM
Lola's Lakehouse
318 E Lake St, Waconia
Join us for a casual lunch at Lola's Lakehouse and connect with other women in business. Lunch is available for purchase from the menu. Come for the conversation, stay for the connections! RSVP in the link below by Friday, August 7.
| |
Waconia Hockey Association Golf Tournament
Monday, August 17 | 11:00AM
Island View Golf Club
7795 Laketown Pkwy, Waconia
Support Waconia youth hockey at the 2026 WHA Golf Tournament at Island View Golf Club. Enjoy 18 holes of golf, dinner, prizes, and a fun afternoon on the course while supporting a great cause. Team and sponsorship opportunities are available, with proceeds benefiting the Waconia Hockey Association.
| | |
Post your jobs on DestinationWaconia.org
and the Waconia Works Facebook Page.
| | | | |
August Luncheon
Leadership at Every Level
Thursday, August 27 | 11:30AM-1:00PM
Schram Vineyards
8785 Airport Rd, Waconia
We're excited to welcome Erik Therwanger of Think GREAT to the upcoming August Luncheon! A U.S. Marine veteran, executive leader, and dynamic speaker, Erik helps business leaders elevate their leadership, planning, and sales. Watch for event details — you won't want to miss this one.
Deadline to Register: Monday, August 24
| | | |
Save the Date! September Luncheon
Meet the Candidates
Thursday, September 24 | 11:30AM-1:00PM
Schram Vineyards
8785 Airport Rd, Waconia
| | | Chamber Calendar - August 2026 | | |
AUGUST 3 Lunch & Learn @Minneapolis Mart Cafe
AUGUST 6 Coffee Connection, 7:30AM-9:00AM @ River Valley Behavioral Health & Wellness Center
AUGUST 10 Women's Connect, 11:30AM-1:00PM @Lola's Lakehouse
AUGUST 11 Tourism Meeting, 9:00AM-10:00AM @J.Carver Distillery
AUGUST 13 Retail Meeting, 9:00AM-10:00AM @Chamber Office
AUGUST 20 Ambassadors, 8:45AM-10:30AM @Chamber Office
AUGUST 25 Waconia Young Professionals, Time TBD
AUGUST 27 Chamber Luncheon, 11:30AM-1:00PM @Schram Vineyards
| | |
STAY CONNECTED
@DestinationWaconia
| | | | |
