Thanks to everyone who had a hand in the 2025 Tree Lighting event! | | The Waconia Tree Lighting was an evening of holiday cheer, complete with caroling, hot cocoa, and the magical moment when Santa lit up City Square Park. Thanks to everyone who joined us to kick off the festive season! | | |
Characters
Waconia's Famous Santa
Mark Fredrickson as Papa Elf
Al Norby as Buddy the Elf
Nina Elizabeth as Jovie
Oliver McKeever as The Grinch
Lucy Mueller as Cindy Lou Who
Erin Weppner as Frosty
Lacey Shaw as Elsa
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Special Thanks
City of Waconia and Kelly Wagener
Waconia Fire Department
Waconia Lions Club
Women of Waconia
Carlson's Llovable Llamas
Choir director Aaron Olson and the Waconia High School and Waconia Faith Lutheran Church Choirs
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Sound system: Mike Norrbom
Warm fires: Matt Wentzlaff of True 'N' Fair Tree Care LLC, Waconia Scouts, Dee DeLange, Heidi Nessa, Lacey Shaw, Mike Wickenhauser
Setup and Teardown Volunteers: Al Norby, Clint Fenner
| | North Pole Presenting Sponsor | | | A Message from the President | | |
Season's Greetings
by Christine Fenner
President, Waconia Chamber of Commerce
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A fresh snowfall and the holiday season are here! We’re gathering with friends and family, practicing a little extra gratitude, and soaking up everything the season has to offer. It’s the best time of the year for traditions, togetherness, and maybe an extra gingerbread cookie or two! While supporting our wonderful small businesses is always in season, now is the perfect time to show some extra love for the shops that make our community so special.
What does it mean to shop local?
It means investing in our community. Our local businesses don’t exist unless we continue to support them. Visit your favorite shop to fill stockings, or grab dinner out to give yourself one less thing to check off your holiday to-do list. Continue Reading...
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2026 Business Benchmarks Report
For generations, Minnesota’s private sector has powered a remarkable story of innovation, productivity and prosperity, with diverse industries, global companies and a highly skilled workforce that have long positioned our state among the top for quality of life and economic strength. Today, new data reveal important shifts in key measures such as GDP, job growth, labor force growth and household income—signals that it is time to take a fresh look at what will drive Minnesota’s next era of success. The Minnesota Chamber’s economic growth initiative outlines the opportunities, challenges and solutions needed to keep our state competitive. Read the full report to explore the data and learn what’s next for Minnesota’s economic future.
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We appreciate your support!
Thank you to all our renewing members for your investment in the Waconia Chamber.
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CorTrust Bank
Dawson & Associates
Memorial Blood Centers
My Appliance Source
Newsworthy Communications
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RAM Buildings & RAM General Contracting
Safari Island Community Center
Waconia Baseball Association
Waconia Ice Arena
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Primary contact: Dan Montauge
(952)-442-0695
1600 Community Dr, Waconia
safariislandcommunitycenter.com
Safari Island recently held its grand reopening, and we were happy to join the celebration. The community center showcased several updates, including a new front desk and new weight equipment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational and fitness opportunities in a welcoming environment for all ages.
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Primary contact: Greg Swanson
(612) 747-2891
44 W Main St, Waconia
Thebasementarcademn@gmail.com
thebasementmn.com
Welcome, The Basement Arcade. Packed with retro and modern games, The Basement offers unlimited play for just $10 and is open Tues–Thurs from 3–5:30PM. It’s an awesome place for birthday parties! 44 W Main Street (enter through the back alley)
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| MovewWell Chiropractic + Wellness | |
(952) 466-6533
9360 Oak Ave, Waconia
frontdesk@movewellchiroandwellness.com
movewellchiroandwellness.com
Congratulations to MoveWell Chiropractic + Wellness! Ambassadors celebrated their beautiful new space at 9360 Oak Ave. Be sure to check them out and schedule an appointment with Dr. Brad and his team.
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| Congratulations on your milestone! Wishing you continued success. | | |
Celebrating 50 years!
Western OB/GYN, a Division of Ridgeview Clinics, is proudly celebrating 50 years of compassionate, community-centered care. Since opening in 1975, the practice has grown alongside the Waconia area and its providers have delivered more than 30,000 babies. Today, the all-female team serves patients across five clinic locations, continuing a long-standing tradition of excellence, education, and multigenerational care.
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Chamber Advantage: Unlock your benefits
The November 4 Chamber Advantage: Unlock your Benefits was all about helping members make the most of their Chamber connection! Thanks to everyone who joined us to learn more about Chamber programs, networking opportunities, and ways to get involved in the Waconia business community. We love seeing members invest in their businesses and make new connections!
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18th Annual D.E.A.R. Day
D.E.A.R. Day returned on November 8 with a full day of shopping, sipping, and dining in Waconia. We also had the chance to share the excitement on KARE 11 and WCCO that morning.
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Women's Connect
At the November Women’s Connect, speaker Sara Hood of Senior Living Insights guided a thoughtful discussion on balancing business life while caring for aging family members.
Save the date for the next Women's Connect!
Monday, February 9 | 11:30AM-1PM
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Visit to Trinity's Leadership & Hospitality Class
Christine and Chelsey spoke to the 7th and 8th graders in Trinity's Leadership and Hospitality class about the work of the chamber and and the impact of local business. Thanks to Mr. Angell for the invite. We had a blast!
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November Luncheon
During the November 20 Chamber Luncheon Meteorologist John Zeigler joined us to talk about life Beyond the Forecast, from staying authentic in the spotlight to building trust and showing up for your community.
Shoutout to Island View Golf Club for the hospitality and to Green Fox Grille for the incredible meal (we’re already counting down to their 2026 opening!).
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Keep it Local with Waconia Bucks
Waconia Bucks are like a gift card for Waconia Chamber member business! All Waconia Bucks dollars stay local and support our community and businesses!
Purchase Waconia Bucks
Waconia Bucks make a great gift and ensures your dollars stay in Waconia! Bucks are accepted at any Waconia Chamber member business. To order: Call 952-442-5812 or click the link below. Order by December 17 to ensure you have in time for Christmas!
Accept Waconia Bucks at Your Business
Waconia Bucks are just like a personal check except they can not be redeemed for cash by the gift recipient. Click below for printable instructions for your staff.
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Help Us Celebrate Excellence in Our Business Community!
It’s that time of year to recognize the incredible talent, dedication, and leadership that make our business community thrive. The Waconia Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Business Excellence Awards are just around the corner, and we need your help!
We invite you to nominate outstanding businesspeople who exemplify excellence in their industry and demonstrate a commitment to our community.
Categories:
- Community Impact Award - creating a significant and positive impact on the community through acts of social responsibility and community service.
- Golden Apple Award - for exceptional efforts in promoting and building business and educational partnerships.
- Business Person/Business of the Year - for leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in the business community.
The business excellence awards will be presented at the Waconia Chamber of Commerce
Annual Meeting on Thursday, January 22, 2026
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We Want to Hear from You! Take Our Annual Survey
Your experience and insights are incredibly valuable to us! As we plan for 2026, we want to ensure that the Waconia Chamber programs, events, and initiatives align with the needs and goals of of your business. That’s why we’re inviting you to take a few moments to complete our Annual Membership Satisfaction Survey.
What’s in it for you? Your feedback will help to form the future of the Waconia Chamber efforts to enhance current programming and events, and explore new ways to support your business. Whether it’s networking opportunities, community events, workforce development, tourism initiatives, partnerships with schools, this is your chance to let us know what matters most to you.
As a thank you, you'll be entered into a drawing to win tickets to the Waconia Chamber Holiday Social on Monday, December 8 from 5-8:00PM at Schram Vineyards. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Deadline: Please complete the survey by Friday, December 12.
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Promote Your Business in the 2026 Waconia Chamber Membership & Visitors Directory!
We’re gearing up for the 2026 Waconia Membership & Visitors Directory! This annual publication highlights Chamber members and our vibrant community, serving as both a trusted local resource and a guide for visitors. This is not only a great way to promote your business, but also a chance to showcase the value of your Chamber membership to residents, newcomers, and visitors alike.
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Important: Review Your Member Profile
As a member of the Waconia Chamber, your business will be in the directory listing. Please take a moment to review your member profile to ensure all your business information is up-to-date. This will ensure accurate representation in both the print and online versions of the directory. Click here for instructions.
| | Santa Sightings in Waconia | | |
Santa at Mackenthun's
Saturday, December 6 | 10:00AM-2:00PM
Mackenthun's
851 Marketplace Dr, Waconia
Santa is coming to Mackenthun’s for their Holiday Open House! Bring your kids and capture a special photo with Santa during this festive event.
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Photos with the Grinch
Saturday, December 6 | 11:00AM-2:00PM
Home Again Furnishings
224 West 1st Street, Waconia
He’s green, he’s grumpy, and he’s ready for photos! 🎄
Join us for a festive afternoon with the Grinch! Snap free photos, enjoy holiday treats, and browse cozy decor and gift ideas. Fun for families and Grinch fans of all ages! $10 off every $30 spent + free furniture giveaways.
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Annual Santa & Grinch visit with DIY cookie box
Saturday, December 13 & 20 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Bakery on Main
136 W Main St, Waconia
Help us welcome back Santa and the Grinch for two special days of holiday fun! This is a pre-purchase event and all families must reserve a time slot. Your $30 registration includes a cookie decorating kit for the whole family. Call 952-442-4447 to secure your spot!
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Superior Steps Sensory Santa
Saturday, December 13 | 10AM-12PM
Superior Steps ABA
7955 Stone Creek Dr, Suite 120, Chanhassen
This holiday season, we’re thrilled to invite you to a magical experience designed for all children, especially those with sensory sensitivities. Our Sensory Santa event is a wonderful opportunity for little ones to meet Santa in a calm and welcoming environment.
What to Expect:
- Low Sensory Environment: Gentle lighting and soft sounds to create a comforting atmosphere.
- Calming Activities: Engage in fun sensory play while waiting to meet Santa!
- Personalized Visits: A chance for each child to interact with Santa in a way that feels right for them.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone is welcome, with accommodations for all needs.
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Santa in the Taproom
Saturday, December 13 | 2:00 - 4:00PM
Waconia Brewing Company
255 W Main St, Waconia
Santa is coming to the taproom, and the whole family is invited to join the fun! Stop by to take a photo with Santa, enjoy delicious pizza from Red Rocket Pizza, and soak up the festive holiday atmosphere.
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Santa at Sovereign Estate
Now thru December 23 | 5:00 - 7:30PM
The Winery at Sovereign Estate
9950 N Shore Rd, Waconia
The real, life Santa will be arriving every night from November 28th through December 23rd, between 5pm and 7:30pm, throughout the magical Christmas season. All guests will have the wonderful opportunity to meet the famous Mr. Claus himself as he joyfully wanders through our festive Spirit of Winter event.
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Lunch with Santa
December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, & 21 | 12:00 - 2:00PM
The Winery at Sovereign Estate
9950 N Shore Rd, Waconia
Join us for a festive lunch with Santa in the brand-new indoor Polar Bear Lounge! Every admission includes a cozy hot chocolate for the little ones and a warming mulled wine for the adults. Santa will be seated comfortably, ready to hear all your special Christmas wishes. A friendly elf will be nearby to help snap the perfect family photo using your phone, so you can cherish the moment forever. Savor delicious dishes and snacks from the Blizzard Bistro menu while enjoying the bright, sunny atmosphere of our beautiful winery.
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Breakfast with Santa
Sunday, December 21 | 8:30AM -12:00PM
American Legion Post 150
4 E Main Street Suite 1, Waconia
Join us for our second annual Breakfast with Santa! Come enjoy our monthly breakfast featuring a buffet with build-your-own omelets, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, American fries, pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy, toast, fresh fruit, pastries, juice, and coffee. Get your picture with Santa for free, and every child will receive a gift bag. Pricing is $15 for adults, $10 for kids 12 and under, $5 for children 5 and under, and free for children 2 and under.
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Community Needs Assessment
Survey open thru December 21
Safari Island Community Center is celebrating 25 years as Waconia’s hub for fitness, aquatics, and community recreation. As the City looks ahead to the next 25 years, a Community Needs Assessment is underway to help shape the future of local recreation and wellness facilities. You are invited to share your feedback in an online survey open December 1–21. Click to learn more and take the survey.
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Spirit of Winter: Festival of Lights
Open thru December 31
The Winery at Sovereign Estate
9950 N Shore Rd, Waconia
The Winery at Sovereign Estate invites you to step into the magic of the season with its Spirit of Winter: Festival of Lights, where over twenty miles of dazzling, synchronized lights transform the lakeshore into a sparkling holiday wonderland. Guests can explore festive attractions like Candy Cane Lane, winter llamas, Santa’s nightly visits, a snow maze, and tons of cozy treats—plus hop aboard the Holly Trolley for an extra-special tour. Adults can sip and celebrate inside the whimsical Nutcracker Suite, a Christmas-themed cocktail lounge serving creative holiday drinks and delicious appetizers. With discounted nights, season passes, and private Christmas Cabanas, this unforgettable holiday experience is the perfect way to make memories with family and friends.
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Christmas Lodge at Schram Vineyards
Now thru December 31 | 4:00PM-8:00PM
Schram Vineyards
8785 Airport Rd, Waconia
Step into the magic at Schram Vineyards’ Christmas Lodge, open Wednesdays–Saturdays from now thru December 31. Cozy up with mulled wine, seasonal cocktails, or your favorite Schram wine, enjoy live music and festive events, and make holiday memories in a warm, twinkling setting—perfect for date nights or friends’ outings that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
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Women of Waconia Toy Drive
Friday, December 5 | 9:00AM-6:30PM
Freshwater Community Church
138 W 1st St, Waconia
Need Help This Holiday Season? Families in the Waconia area (School District 110) are welcome to attend the 2025 Women of Waconia Toy Drive – Gift Choosing Day to select gifts for children from infancy through age 18. Please bring proof of address and, if applicable, documentation showing legal guardianship. No reservation is required—just stop by! For more information, contact women_of_waconia@yahoo.com or visit the Waconia Toy Drive Facebook page.
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Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 6 | 10:00-2:00PM
All Mackenthun's Locations
851 Marketplace Dr, Waconia
Join us for our annual Holiday Open House at all Mackenthun's locations! There will delicious demos throughout the store to help you plan the perfect holiday meals. At the Waconia location, there will be photos with Santa from 10AM-1PM. The Minnetrista location will also have demos throughout the store, and a Holiday Photo Booth from 10AM-1PM. The Lonsdale location will have a Holiday Cookie Walk. A festive mix & match Christmas cookie event! They will also have demos and a Holiday Photo Booth from 10AM-2PM.
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Old Fashioned Christmas Caroling
Sunday, December 7 | 1:45-4:00PM
Trinity Lutheran Church
601 E 2nd St, Waconia
All ages are welcome to spread holiday cheer at our old-fashioned Christmas caroling event, hosted by the Care Ministry! Choose to caravan in your own car or ride the bus as we visit homebound Trinity members to share Christmas blessings. Music will be provided—just bring your joyful spirit! Meet at Door C by 1:45 pm Questions? Call Tara Hough at 952-737-8054. Come make merry memories and brighten someone’s holiday season!
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Freshwater Family Christmas Party
Sunday, December 7 | 3:00-5:00PM
Freshwater Church
155 Main St W, Waconia
Join us for Freshwater’s Family Christmas Party with carriage rides, crafts, games, music, a Christmas movie, snacks, hot chocolate, and more! Stick around for the 5PM service and dinner. Open-house style fun for the whole family!
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Soup & Carols: A 1940s Christmas Radio Show
Sunday, December 7 | 5:00-7:00PM
Parkside Church
9560 Paradise Lane, Waconia
All are invited to come and enjoy Parkside Church's annual Soup & Carols event! This year, join the live audience in our 1940s-themed radio show as we usher in Christmas joy and cheer along with a men's quartet and the acclaimed Parkside Soup & Carols Band!
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Holiday Survival Puppy Workshop
Monday, December 9 | 6:00-7:30PM
Paws Inn Pet Essentials
120 S Vine St, Waconia
Paws Inn is hosting a one-night Holiday Survival Puppy Workshop, designed for puppies 5 months and under. This quick, effective session helps new puppy parents navigate the busy season with tips for reducing biting and jumping, building simple training skills, creating holiday-friendly routines, and managing guests, travel, and overstimulation. It’s the perfect pre-holiday boost to keep your puppy safe, calm, and happy.
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Puppy & Level Training Classes Begin in January!
Starting in January
Paws Inn Pet Essentials
120 S Vine St, Waconia
Full training classes return in January at Paws Inn, including AKC STAR Puppy, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. These structured sessions offer step-by-step skill building, confidence development, and ongoing support for puppies and dogs of all ages. Registration will open soon—making it a great time to kick off the New Year with a strong training foundation.
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Sip 'N Shop Holiday Boutique
Friday, December 12 | 5:00-8:30PM
J. Carver Distillery
1320 Mill Ln, Waconia
J. Carver Distillery has beautiful and inviting cocktail room for holiday shoppers to relax and enjoy featured J. Carver cocktails while spending a fun evening shopping from over 12 local MN craft vendors and small businesses in the area. Ticket price is $5 per person which you can redeem at checkout as a credit for cocktail or bottle purchases. Max redemption is $5 per person.
We look forward to seeing you! Get a group together and purchase your tickets online today.
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The Nutcracker Suite
December 19, 20 & 21
Mayer Lutheran High School
306 7th St NE, Mayer
Enjoy the magic of the season with The Nutcracker Suite 2025, a festive holiday performance perfect for audiences of all ages. This cherished Christmas classic brings dancers, music, and storytelling together to create a timeless family tradition. Tickets are $15 per person and available online, by email, or at the door starting November 1. Come celebrate the holidays with a performance you won’t want to miss!
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Creating in Carver County
thru December 31
Carver County Historical Society
555 W 1st Street, Waconia
The Carver County Historical Society and the Arts Consortium of Carver County are proud to bring you Creating in Carver County, a brand new art display hosted at the CCHS from now through December!
Enjoy original art brought to you in partnership with the Arts Consortium of Carver County. Join us upstairs in our large exhibit room for walls of local artwork - some of which is available for purchase! This art show will be up through the holidays, so be sure to drop by and see what the talented artists of Carver County create!
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Carver County Public Health: SHIP Workplace Funding Opportunity
Proposals Due January 9, 2026 | 4:30PM
Carver County Public Health is looking for motivated employers that are interested in strengthening their workplace culture and offering opportunities to make the healthy choice the easy choice. Any size workplace in Carver County is invited to submit a project proposal for Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) funding to assist in implementing sustainable changes in healthy eating, movement throughout the day, breastfeeding support, commercial tobacco-free workplaces and/or mental wellbeing.
If you are interested in applying for funding, please complete the SHIP Workplace Project Proposal. Limited funds are available and completing a project proposal is required. SHIP Workplace Project Proposals are due by January 9, 2026, by 4:30 pm CST.
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22nd Annual Waconia - West Carver Rotary
Gourmet Wine Dinner Experience
Monday, January 26
Buddy Boy Barbeque
8175 MN-7, Minnetrista
Join us for the 24th annual Waconia-West Carver Rotary Gourmet Wine Dinner at Buddy Boy Fine Barbeque. Enjoy a five-course dinner with wine pairings, celebrate Paul Harris Fellow Roger Storms, and support local food shelves and international clean water projects. VIP experiences and a silent auction make this a night you won’t want to miss!
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Waconia Works
Waconia Chamber members are hiring! Check out current job postings on DestinationWaconia.org and share them through your network to help support local businesses.
Current openings:
- Infant Teacher Aide, Cadence Academy Preschool
- CMA & LPN positions, Lakeview Clinic
Post your job openings on DestinationWaconia.org and Waconia Works Facebook group.
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Follow the Waconia Chamber on LinkedIn
The Waconia Chamber is on LinkedIn.
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Review Your Member Profile
As a member of the Waconia Chamber, your business is listed on DestinationWaconia.org and will be in the 2026 Waconia Membership & Visitors Directory. Please take a moment to review your member profile to ensure all your business information is up-to-date. This will ensure accurate representation in both the print and online versions of the directory.
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Annual Meeting: A Year In Review
Thursday, January 22 | 11:30AM-1:00PM
Freshwater Church
138 W 1st St, Waconia
National Anthem
State of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau
2025 Year in Review video
Nominee Recognition & Award Presentation: Ambassador of the Year
Recognition of the Board of Directors
Business Excellence Award Presentations:
Community Service Impact Award
Golden Apple Award
Business of the Year
Deadline to register: Monday, January 19
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Save the Dates!
Career Exploration Fair
& Waconia Community Expo
April 10-11, 2026
Waconia High School
Interested in joining the planning committee for the Career Exploration Fair or the Community Expo? Reply to this email to let us know!
| | Chamber Calendar - December 2025 | | |
DECEMBER 8 Holiday Social, 5-8PM @Schram Vineyards
DECEMBER 9Tourism Meeting 9-10:00AM @Carver County Historical Society
DECEMBER 18 Ambassadors, 8:45AM @Waconia Chamber Office
DECEMBER 24-26 Chamber Office Closed
JANUARY 1 Chamber Office Closed
JANUARY 8 Coffee Connection 7:30-9AM @Lakeside Loft
JANUARY 8 Retail Committee Marketing Meeting, 9-10:30AM
JANUARY 22 Annual Meeting and Business Excellence Awards
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STAY CONNECTED
@DestinationWaconia
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Friday Facts is a publication of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce
952-442-5812
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