Partnership, Collaboration, and Spirit

Free State Park Entry on Black Friday

On November 28th, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas, including Frontenac State Park, offer free admission to everyone under the DNR’s Free Park Days.

The goal of Free Park Days is to encourage Minnesotans to get outdoors and "enjoy the health and wellness benefits of spending time in nature."

While vehicle permits are waived for the day, user fees for activities like camping, rentals, or special tours still apply. Learn more here

Film Ready Lake City

Throughout 2025 Visit lake City, along with city partners at the Port Authority and Public Safety have been completing the processes to be included in Explore Minnesota Film's list of Film Ready Communities. The process involved completing a film liaison certification course, and defining and streamlining Lake City's permitting process for potential film, ad, and television productions. As of November, we've made it official!

A film office is a state-level entity designed to promote and support film, television and media production within its region. Its purpose is to attract production and offer services like location assistance, permits and state incentives to boost the film industry and drive economic growth. Learn more about Explore Minnesota for Film here

Is Your Business Ready for PFML?

Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) provides payments and job protections to people who need time away from work for their own health or to care for a family member.

Make sure you are ready. The policy goes into effect on January 1, 2026. Resources are available to help your business navigate this change.

See the MN.Gov page for employers here
Learn more about eligibility and benefits for individuals and families here

Get resources from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce here

Lake City Area Arts Gingerbread House Contest

Houses will be on display during the Shops of Lake City “Christmas by the Lake” celebration on Saturday, November 29th. Visitors to the LCAA will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite house, and the “Peoples Choice” winner will receive $50 Chamber Bucks and be pictured with their decorated house on our FB page and the LCAA weekly email to members. 

Get your contest entry form here and start baking!
Reach out to lakecityareaarts@gmail.com with any questions.

Minnesota Business Podcast

In an increasingly busy world, stay ahead of the curve with The Minnesota Business Podcast, your essential weekly digest of Minnesota business and public affairs news. Whether you’re a professional, entrepreneur or policymaker, this podcast, provided by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, is designed to efficiently get you all the vital Minnesota business news you need.
Listen here

Host a Business After Hours Event in 2026

We had an amazing time with the folks Rebel Fire Que and Company at our last business after hours of 2025. So good! If you haven't had a chance to grab some of their offerings at local events, we've only got one question... What are you waiting for?!

While Business After Hours takes December off, we invite you to consider hosting one next year! These events are an excellent way to make your establishment the center of attention of Lake City's business community.

Partner with the Chamber to host an open house and benefit from the publicity and networking opportunities these events are famous for!
Annie has created a quick form for you to fill out if you're interested. Get it here

Chamber Bucks Changes Reminder

We’re excited to roll out Chamber eBucks, the new digital version of our popular Chamber Bucks program on December 1st. See new link for online sales and current locations here. All the paper bucks need to be used by December 31 or can be converted to eBucks at the chamber. Feel free to contact us for more info or to make sure your business is included in our active locations.