All aboard for an unforgettable weekend! The 52nd Annual James J. Hill Days, presented by Sandvold Financial Group, rolls into Wayzata September 11–13, bringing three days of nonstop fun to the shores of Lake Minnetonka. This beloved community celebration welcomes over 80,000 guests to experience the best of small-town charm with big-time excitement. Join us for Lake Minnetonka’s largest 3-day festival—you won’t want to miss it!
See What’s Coming Up September 11-13!
Shop, Shop, and Shop Some MORE
The James J. Hill Days Street Market is back, featuring over 175 unique vendors from Friday, September 11 at 5 pm, through Sunday, September 13. Stroll down Lake Street to shop, learn, and connect with a diverse array of vendors. Discover offerings in Business, Health & Wellness, Home & Garden, Non-Profit, Arts & Crafts, and Sports & Fitness. Plus, visit our fantastic local businesses in town and get ready for an exciting weekend!
Friday Night Rails & Ales Craft Beer Festival
Join us for Rails & Ales Craft Beer Festival, sponsored by Planet Home Lending, on Friday, September 11th from 5 – 9 pm to sample beers from over 20+ breweries, enjoy delicious local food trucks (not included in ticket price), live music by Coyote Wild, fun games, and activities. You can still purchase tickets for this event. Grab your beer-drinking buddy and purchase tickets here. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS >>
Food Truck Frenzy
Come hungry to James J. Hill Days and enjoy all that Eat Street, sponsored by Red Cow, has to offer. Soak up the sunshine or enjoy the nighttime vibes as you stroll down Lake Street, sipping on a refreshing glass of wine or an ice-cold craft beer from our Beer + Wine tents. Make sure you arrive hungry and ready to treat your taste buds to a variety of delicious eats and food truck specialties. CLICK HERE TO SEE FOOD TRUCK LINEUP >>
March in the James J. Hill Days Parade
The James J. Hill Days Parade, sponsored by Davey Tree, is BACK and better than ever—mark your calendars for Sunday, September 13! Grab your crew, find your spot along Lake Street, and get ready to cheer on a lineup of floats, music, and community fun. Don’t miss the chance to join the parade – applications close August 28! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE PARADE >>
Bands That Will Hit The Right Note
Get ready to dance the weekend away with live music, sponsored by Youngstedts, Ulrich Real Estate, and Regency Homes! Join us at the Sandvold Stage starting Friday night, September 11, for an incredible lineup of local bands. The music continues throughout Saturday and Sunday, so grab your dancing partners and enjoy the tunes! Our exciting lineup includes Powertap, Taylor Robert with Roll N Soul Band, The 70’s Magic Sunshine Band, High & Mighty, ACES & 88’s Dueling Pianos, and performances by Dance Esteem.
Lake Minnetonka Carnival is Back!
Step right up and enjoy the Lake Minnetonka Carnival! This is a family favorite, and rightfully so! Enjoy all the rides, carnival games, and cotton candy that this attraction has to offer. Discounted Presale Carnival ticket sales are on sale mid-August at Lunds & Byerlys Wayzata through September 10th. Stay tuned!
Days at the Dog Park
Spend your days at the James J. Hill Days Dog Park, sponsored by TCCare Veterinary Clinic. On Saturday, don’t miss the 42nd Annual Dachshund Races at noon, where speedy pups battle for glory! The fun continues on Sunday for the Doggy Olympics from 12-2 pm. More Dog Park fun will be added to the schedule soon. CLICK HERE FOR DOGGY REGISTRATIONS >>
Coaster Carts Races
The Coaster Cart Derby is racing back to James J. Hill Days! This gravity-fueled family favorite invites kids ages 6–14 to design, build, and race their very own carts with help from a grown-up pit crew. It’s not about speed records—it’s about smiles, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. CLICK HERE FOR COASTER CART REGISTRATION >>
Want to attend and make an impact? Volunteer as a Wavemaker!
There’s a spot for everyone! Whether you’re pouring at the Beer + Wine Tent, assisting Street Market vendors, or helping behind the scenes, your energy and time will make a huge impact. Join the fun. Meet great people. Be part of something big! CLICK HERE FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES >>
