Water Ski Days (Lake City)

Water Ski Days, a celebration that has been a staple in Lake City, Minnesota, for over five decades, is an event that embodies the spirit of summer fun and adventurous spirit. Locals and repeat attendees often refer to it as the annual summer party, a nickname that captures the festive and inclusive atmosphere of the event.

This vibrant festival is designed for a diverse audience, appealing to families, music lovers, foodies, boaters, athletes, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a weekend of excitement. At the heart of Water Ski Days are the water-ski enthusiasts, but the event’s broad range of activities ensures there is something for everyone. Notable guests include platinum-selling country artist Matt Stell, who will perform lakeside concerts, and competitive skiers from the USA Water Ski Foundation, who will host a free ‘Get on the Water’ youth clinic.

The 53rd Annual Water Ski Days takes place from Thursday, June 26, to Sunday, June 29, 2025. Each day is packed with a variety of events that start in the late afternoon and continue into the evening. Thursday marks the beginning with the opening of the carnival at Ohuta Park, featuring rides, games, and food vendors courtesy of Gold Star Amusements. Friday is highlighted by the ‘Get on the Water’ free youth clinic from 11 AM to 4 PM and the first of several stunning Ski Team Water Shows. Saturday is a day filled with a grand parade, often described as one of the biggest small-town parades in Minnesota, a classic car show at the Lincoln High Football Field, and more water-ski shows. Sunday wraps up the event with a Ralph Samuelson Tribute Thrill Show and a new National Ski Jump Competition.

The event is centered around Ohuta Beach and Park, located on the shores of Lake Pepin in Lake City, Minnesota. Lake Pepin, a naturally beautiful and historically significant lake, is where Ralph Samuelson invented water skiing in 1922. To get to Lake City, visitors can use the nearest airports, such as the Rochester International Airport or the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and then take highways I-90 or I-35. Local transportation and boat access are also available, making it easy for attendees to arrive and enjoy the scenic views.

Why should people attend Water Ski Days? This event is a unique blend of history, entertainment, and community spirit. The lakeside concerts, featuring top talent like Matt Stell, take place on a floating stage, offering an unforgettable music experience. The arts and crafts fair at Patton Park boasts over 100 vendors, while food trucks and local eateries provide a culinary journey through the region’s best offerings. The gravity-defying water-ski shows and the new National Ski Jump Competition are thrilling spectacles that celebrate the sport invented in Lake City.

The carnival, with its rides and games, adds a playful touch, while the classic car show and local 5K, 10K, and half-marathon events cater to those with a passion for cars and running. The grand parade on Sunday is a colorful and joyful procession that brings the community together. With its rich history, diverse activities, and stunning natural setting, Water Ski Days is an event that inspires a sense of wonder and community, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to experience the best of summer in Minnesota.