Waconia, MN February 2026

The Love Local Issue

Love, Close to Home

As February rolls around, I always find myself in a familiar tug-of-war. On one hand, I want to resist the pull of another commercialized holiday, yet on the other, I can’t help but savor the sweet moments it brings — an excuse to celebrate love in all its forms.

Do we opt for a Valentine’s Day date out or settle in for a cozy night at home? A handwritten card or a heartfelt kind word? For me, it’s usually a mix of both. Each of us will find our own ways to mark the occasion, shaped by our unique preferences and personalities. But what unites us all is the opportunity to remind those around us just how much they mean to us.

This month’s issue is dedicated to helping you do just that — celebrating and highlighting the best of what’s to love in our local community. The charm that both Waconia and Victoria downtowns offer is all around us.  The combination of coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping is simply amazing, making it fun and easy to get out and enjoy our friends and neighbors.

“Love local” isn’t just about supporting the businesses in your area — it’s about cherishing what’s near to you in every sense. So, why not grab a cup of coffee at Mocha Monkey or Bakery on Main, then hit the local shops on Main Street. Or maybe pick up a bottle of wine from Schram Vineyards for a relaxed movie night in. Enjoy a nice dinner with friends at Bode Gray’s, and a nightcap at The Brass Hat.

As we navigate the lingering chill of winter and the promise of spring’s arrival, let’s take a moment to come together with the people who matter most. Whether they’re in your home, down the street, or across the community, February is a wonderful time to connect and share love.

At the heart of everything we do is the belief that together, we’re stronger. Every month, the stories shared within these pages prove that again and again.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of the life you’re building. Our greatest hope is that this issue helps you love it just a little more than before.

Here’s to a February filled with love — both local and beyond!

MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Amanda Wagner, Lauren Beaubaire, Cassie Suppes, Bailey Hall

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lexi Renae Studios, Blake Ziemer, Jake Miller, Cassie Suppes, Emily John Photography, Taylor Hubbard Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

business monthly

Highmark Builders Named 2025 Remodeler of the Year

Congratulations to Highmark Builders for being named Remodeler of the Year by Housing First Minnesota for 2025! This recognition highlights Highmark’s ongoing dedication to excellence and building strong relationships with clients and trade partners throughout the Twin Cities area. Matt Eastman, Vice President of Highmark Builders, expressed, “Every department across all of our companies played a part in achieving this. This is a team win—earned through consistency, accountability, and a shared commitment to doing things the right way.”

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The 1980s called. It says to visit The Basement Arcade!

The Basement, a retro-style arcade, recently had its ribbon-cutting ceremony. This community gathering space is packed with retro and modern games and offers unlimited play for just $10. Open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm, this is the perfect place to meet your friends after school or to have a fun, unique birthday party. You’ll find them at 44 W Main Street. Enter through the back alley!

Get your car Superior Clean with Sota Shine

You’ll need the car in tip-top shape for your Valentine’s Day date, and who better to help you with that than Sota Shine? They have multiple packages to choose from based on your needs, or you can pay as you go—all you do is drive in, and they’ll do the rest! Moreover, they utilize advanced technologies like solar power and water reclamation. Drive in blah and drive out a happy customer (with a sparkling car).

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ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEXI RENAE STUDIOS

YOUR Sanctuary AWAITS

Step into Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness for a boutique approach that’s all about you

You take a deep cleansing breath as your lungs fill with gentle air. You exhale and look around, letting the tranquility and inviting warmth sink in. You’re light, you’re refreshed, and perfectly balanced. This restorative experience could be of an idyllic summer day, curling up with a good book and soft music — or it could be a visit to Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness. From the calming, earthy aesthetic to the friendly welcome each client receives, owner and Family Nurse Practitioner, Quincee MacGibbon, says every detail is intentional, every visit personal and unhurried. “Our goal is never to become the biggest, but to remain the most trusted and personalized in our community.”

Quincee’s journey has been an exciting and purpose-driven one. She began her career working in a clinic setting where she listened to patients express frustration about feeling exhausted and not at their best. She wanted to combine her medical background with her passion for helping people feel confident, healthy, and vibrant. In 2022, Quincee brought two worlds together in a purposeful and rewarding way when she launched Awaken, seeing clients in her own home. She then moved into a small space in The Cutting Edge Salon, and in August of this past year, she expanded her team with her first employee, registered nurse Tonya Spector, while relocating to the gorgeous, charming heart of Victoria.

Spaces may have changed, but the easygoing, soothing atmosphere has not. “Awaken has grown so much over the past few years, and I wanted a space that truly reflected the quality of care, intention, and warmth behind everything we do. The new location gives us room to expand our services, elevate the client experience, and create a calming, beautiful environment where people can slow down and feel cared for.” When you step inside this luxurious sanctuary, you don’t feel like just another appointment on the calendar; instead, you feel genuinely cared for with a personalized plan and plenty of time dedicated just to you. “We plan to stay personal in this way and keep the small, boutique feel of our space even as business continues to grow.” She does this how she always has — with proactive, individualized care that is never rushed and never transactional.

Besides exceptional attention, you’ll have your pick from a menu of services that support your confidence from the inside out. “The expansion has allowed us to offer more wellness services under one roof, including in-house lab draws and hormone and wellness optimization visits,” Quincee explains. They now have a dedicated laser suite featuring the mJOULE platform, one of the most reputable lasers in the industry, offering BBL HEROic and MOXI therapies — some of the most advanced,

“Our goal is never to become the biggest, but to remain the most trusted and personalized in our community.”

results-driven laser treatments available. “With one device, we can treat including pigment, rosacea, sun damage, melasma, acne, and more.” They also now offer laser hair removal, while Tonya provides IV infusions and vitamin injections to help clients feel rejuvenated and energized.

In an industry that’s always evolving, Quincee knows the importance of staying current so she can offer the safest, most advanced, and effective care possible. “I’m constantly learning — attending trainings, collaborating with some of the best aesthetic providers in the area, studying emerging research, and connecting with other providers who share the same commitment to natural, ethical aesthetics and wellness services.”

Along with staying up-to-date in the industry, making these treatments accessible for all is very important to Quincee as well. Awaken offers memberships, packaging pricing, and transparent treatment plans so clients can prioritize what matters most without feeling overwhelmed. “My goal is to make high-quality, safe aesthetic and wellness care accessible, while still maintaining the highest safety and product standards.”

“The new location gives us room to expand our services, elevate the client experience, and create a calming, beautiful environment where people can slow down and feel cared for.”

When you step in for some well-deserved care, it becomes clear right away that the approach at Awaken is low-pressure and natural. Education and honesty are the foundation of everything they do. “I never recommend treatments that don’t fit a client’s goals, lifestyle, or budget. I prioritize subtle, natural results that enhance their features — not change them. Clients feel safe knowing they’re heard, supported, and never pushed into something they don’t need.” At Awaken, you’ll walk in for a wellness session and walk out with a new friend. Quincee loves getting to know her clients as they rediscover their confidence and feel their very best. As she says, “Watching this transformation happen, inside and out, is why I love what I do.”

awakenaestheticsandwellness.com

LOCAL LOVE

for HER

Valentine’s Day, Christmas’s sweet and sparkly little sister, is coming just around the strawberry nugget-filled bend — and we know you’re ready to shower your special someone with a

1.THE WELLNESS STUDIO: Acupuncture can help alleviate headaches, insomnia, the common cold, and so much more. Treat your best girl to a relaxing session with one of the skilled, caring providers at this peaceful wellness studio. 2. THE STASH: They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but a pair or two of festive pretties from The Stash are a close second. 3. NICE SHIRT, CO.: Sometimes simple says it all. A dainty heart necklace says ‘I love you’ without saying a word. 4. SHAPE IT UP FITNESS: Keep your leading lady soft, cozy, and cute with a custom-branded Waconia Lululemon hoodie (they come in men’s sizes, too!). 5. SCHRAM VINEYARDS: Choose between three and six bottles per quarter with a membership to Schram’s Elite Wine Club, then watch the love — and the wine — flow.

little indulgence. If you’re feeling like your gift-giving creativity is running low, we’ve got you covered. This gift roundup of unique and memorable ideas from our local businesses is here to help! You focus on the hugs, and we’ll handle the rest.

Your

for thoughtful Valentine’s Day finds with a hometown touch

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

for HIM

1. OMNI BREWERY & TAPROOM: A growler or two of locally brewed, handcrafted beer to round out an evening at home will definitely make him feel the love. 2. CABIN FEVER: Is your Valentine hooked on fishing? This local fishing headquarters has everything you need to fill his ice shack — and his heart — with all the feels. 3. LAUNCHPAD GOLF, THE MEADOWS: This year-round entertainment destination has it all: excellent dining, heated bay golfing, interactive games, and more! If your guy likes to play — and not just golf — grab him a gift card and let the fun begin. 4. WINCHESTER & RYE: This restaurant and whiskey lounge exudes cozy Valentine’s Day date vibes. Surprise him by brushing up on your whiskeys, or leave it to the knowledgeable staff to guide you. 5. THE BURROW: Whether he’s done it before, or it’s his first time, take him to throw some axes – just trust us on this one.

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLAKE ZIEMER AND JAKE MILLER

more than golf

Inside Prior Lake’s New Go-To Gathering Spot

When Nate Swenson talks about LaunchPad Golf, his excitement is immediate and contagious. After eight years with the Minnesota Vikings, including time working closely with the Mystic Lake account, Nate recently stepped into his role as general manager just as LaunchPad Golf opened its doors in Prior Lake this past fall.

“It felt like the right move at the right time,” Nate says. “The Mystic Lake area is growing and thriving. It’s really becoming an entertainment district, and LaunchPad fits naturally into that momentum.”

For Nate, the appeal was more than just a career change. It was the chance to help introduce something new to the community and fill a noticeable gap. While similar golf-entertainment concepts exist in the Twin Cities metro, most are a longer drive. LaunchPad Golf brought year-round golf, elevated food and beverage, and a social atmosphere right to Prior Lake.

A WARM WELCOME FROM THE COMMUNITY

Since opening, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Built-in foot traffic from Mystic Lake has helped introduce a wide range of guests to the space, but Nate is intentional about what LaunchPad ultimately becomes.

“We want to accommodate everyone,” he says. “It’s not just about the golf, it’s the full experience. The food, the service, the atmosphere. We want this place to feel like an extension of the community.”

That philosophy shows up in the diversity of guests coming through the doors. During any given day, the crowd shifts — families and kids in the afternoon, social groups and college students later on, and holiday parties or corporate events filling evenings. Many guests come in expecting just golf and leave surprised by everything else.

“A lot of people say, ‘I didn’t realize there was food like this,’ or ‘I didn’t know this was such a great place to watch a game,’” Nate says. “Their visits evolve. They might come for golf the first time, but then they’re back for dinner or drinks.”

RETHINKING GOLF SEASON IN MINNESOTA

In a state where winter can sideline golf for months, LaunchPad changes the conversation. Traditional rounds can take four to five hours, but here, guests can play for an hour or two, and not everyone in the group has to golf.

“You can play real courses, try games for beginners, or just hang out,” Nate explains. “It’s fun no matter your experience level.”

“It’s not just about the golf, it’s the full experience. The food, the service, the atmosphere.”

Photography by Blake Ziemer

For serious golfers, the technology delivers real value. Advanced ball tracking provides feedback on spin rate, ball speed, and club speed. Data you don’t get at a traditional driving range. The autotee system, which raises balls through the floor, removes friction from the experience and keeps play moving.

“It’s as simple as possible from start to finish,” Nate says. “You don’t need to be tech-savvy to enjoy it.”

And for those who are brand new? LaunchPad is all about fun. Because in order to love golf, you first have to enjoy golf. The goal is to make golf approachable, even for first-timers.

MORE THAN GOLF: FOOD, DRINK, AND ATMOSPHERE

Food plays a central role in LaunchPad’s appeal. Rather than defaulting to standard sports-bar fare, the team leaned into the resources and culinary expertise available through the casino and tribal affiliation to create an elevated yet approachable menu.

Crowd favorites have emerged quickly. The flatbreads, bison tacos, and truffle bison burger, as well as weekend brunch, have been a big hit. Nate says menu innovation is an ongoing conversation.

“We wanted an elevated experience at a reasonable price,” he says. “Something familiar, but with our own twist.”

The atmosphere shifts throughout the day. Daytime brings a relaxed, practice-focused energy, while nights feel more social with music, drinks at the bar, games on TV, and groups lingering well after their golf session ends. Increasingly, guests are coming in just for lunch, dinner, or drinks, no golf required.

BUILDING COMMUNITY, ONE LEAGUE AT A TIME

Looking ahead, LaunchPad is focused on growing thoughtfully. Public leagues launched in January, with plans to expand based on demand. Lessons with golf pros from The Meadows at Mystic Lake add another layer, supporting everyone from beginners to seasoned players looking to sharpen their game.

“We’re starting small, listening, and building from there,” Nate says.

Ultimately, Nate hopes LaunchPad becomes a go-to gathering place in Prior Lake, a spot at the top of locals’ restaurant lists, a place to celebrate milestones, host events, or simply spend time together.

“When people leave, I want them to feel taken care of,” he says. “Like they had fun, felt welcome, and want to come back. That’s what loving local looks like to me.” launchpadgolf.com/minnesota/ the-meadows

From radiant Hydrafacials and advanced laser treatments to perfectly balanced lip filler and wrinklesmoothing Botox, Something to Crow About is your destination for personalized aesthetics. Whether you’re refreshing your glow or enhancing your features, our expert team offers results-driven treatments designed around you — and so much more to help you look and feel your absolute best this February.

PERMISSION to be

cheesy

VALENTINE’S DAY CHEESECAKE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE SUPPES

Valentine’s Day is all about showing your loved one just how much you care. Rather than opting for the predictable chocolates and flowers, why not showcase your culinary prowess and create a one-of-a-kind cheesecake? Not only will this delectable treat demonstrate your affection, but it will also add a personal and luxurious touch

to the holiday celebration. Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable by going above and beyond with a heartfelt, homemade gift. Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for two because it’s both rich and indulgent, but not too heavy. Plus, it can be easily customized to fit your own personal taste and it’s much easier than you think!

TO MAKE THE PERFECT CHEESECAKE,

• 1 pound cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, add in the sour cream and heavy cream and mix until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is set. Let cool completely before serving.

For this recipe, we decided to add berries and honey to the top of our cheesecake. Take the time to make yours special to your relationship. With toppings such as chocolate, jelly, whip cream, berries, fruit, or whatever your partner’s favorite is you’re sure to make them smile. Make things colorful by adding food coloring to the mix, it can even be made in their

YOU’LL NEED:

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 prepared graham cracker crust

favorite color. You can also change things up by making your own crust with Oreos or cinnamon crackers.

To elevate this recipe to the next level, consider using high-quality ingredients such as grass-fed cream cheese and locally sourced honey. For added luxury, try using a blend of different types of berries, or even substituting the graham cracker crust with a crust made of crushed pistachios or hazelnuts.

In addition to adding a variety of toppings, you can also get creative with the presentation. For example, try using a springform pan to create a heart-shaped cheesecake, or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of the cheesecake slices. You can also garnish the cheesecake with edible flowers or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a truly indulgent experience.

Up North

Enjoy a weekend escape to Grand View Lodge, where history and rustic charm meets modern luxury

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

Pack your bags. We’re heading up north and spending the weekend at Grand View Lodge. This historic Minnesota resort on Gull Lake blends rustic charm with modern luxury and is just a car ride away. No passports. No airport. No stress.

“Guests step into a legacy of leisure at Grand View Lodge,” says Moe Beyer, Corporate Director of Communications. “The resort offers luxury cabins, a rejuvenating spa, and distinctive dining venues. It’s family-friendly, and we host girls’ weekends, guys’ weekends with golf, family reunions, celebrations, and more.”

Grand View has been perfecting the guest experience since they started welcoming guests back in 1916, offering up an unforgettable, relaxing getaway for more than 100 years. With an incredible history rooted in the Brainerd Lakes area, guests can step back in time and unpack decades of tradition in the historic main lodge.

“The main lodge still has its original log accents and fireplaces,” says Moe. “This balance of tradition and innovation is part of its enduring charm. Our guests return year after year to create memories and enjoy an exceptional experience. Friendly. Historic. Memories. That’s what Grand View Lodge’s atmosphere is and always will be.”

Creating unforgettable memories and new traditions is Grand View’s specialty. Guests come back and stay in their favorite lodging, choosing between accommodations with their preferred lakeside or golf course views, with couples cozying up in a cottage and big families sprawling out in luxury homes that can host up to 12+ people.

“For families, they love the indoor waterpark with slides, seasonal outdoor recreation, and yearround programming like yoga, crafts, and guided nature activities,” says Moe. “With over 65 activities available year-round, kids and parents alike find plenty to enjoy. We host Kids Club with fun activities for all ages, and then parents can go out for dinner or a boat ride on their own.”

The resort is also known for its two championship golf courses: The Pines, with 27 holes winding through woodlands, and The Preserve,

showcasing rolling terrain and elevated tees. Moe adds, “During the winter, guests can play at The Pines restaurant, Freddy’s Bar & Grill, on golf simulators and take swings on the PGA’s golf courses, nationwide.”

And with Valentine’s Day around the corner, Grand View might just be the perfect gift. The resort is offering a special February “Love in the Northwoods” experience for the ultimate romantic getaway with your favorite person. Couples can relax at The Glacial Waters Spa with over 70 services, including massages, renewing skincare, body therapies, and rejuvenating soaks. Or, they can take a dip and unwind after a long day of activity and adventure in the state’s largest year-round outdoor hot tub at the resort’s new NorthPark Recreation Center.

“Our new NorthPark facility features a 3,779 sq ft indoor pool area with a waterslide, swimming lanes, and two hot tubs. Plus, we offer an expansive outdoor pool, tennis and pickleball courts, outdoor games, basketball, ice skating rinks, stateof-the-art fitness center, yoga studio, and retail shop,” says Moe.

The NorthPark Recreation Center is part of a $30 million expansion project that the resort went through in 2020. Other renovations included CONTINUED >

updated lodgings, expanded spa with a salt room, steam rooms, sauna, and a year-round, outdoor hot tub with heated floors and fireplace, a 1,200 square-foot wedding chapel, and The North Hotel, a new boutique style offering complete with coffee bar, lite bites and cocktails, group meeting space, and 60 rooms.

“We want to make every stay feel magical and memorable,” says Moe. “Our staff are known for their dedication and hospitality, helping guests with everything from planning activities to surprising families with small touches that make vacations feel personal. Guest experience is a priority.”

Moe emphasizes, “Grand View Lodge is more than a resort — it’s a Minnesota tradition. And the goal is simple: memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a child’s first waterslide ride or a couple’s lakeside dinner or a stay and play wedding celebration, we’re here to help create moments of joy and connection.”

Start your escape at grandviewlodge.com, or if you’re interested in a romantic Valentine’s rendezvous, learn more about the “Love in the Northwoods” offer at grandviewlodge.com/love-in-the-northwoods

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative paintingeach person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.      Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

FEBRUARY 1ST

Full Snow Moon Hike

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 6:00 PM

Snowshoe under the Full Snow Moon during this special after-hours event. February’s full moon is known as the Snow Moon due to the typically heavy snowfall that occurs in February. Snowshoes are available to rent so visitors can explore winter trails and find the best moon-viewing spots before warming up around a bonfire and roasting marshmallows. Beverages will be available for purchase.

FEBRUARY 8TH

Victoria Firefighters' Relief Association Ice Fishing Contest

Stieger Lake, Victoria. | 12:00 PM

Grab your fishing gear for the Victoria Firefighters' Relief Association's annual Ice Fishing Contest! Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance from any Victoria Firefighter. There are prizes for the top three predator fish and top three panfish. Prizes include tickets to some of the biggest concerts in 2026, a Schells Brewery Experience, and multiple cash prizes. More info: ci.victoria.mn.us/community/ events_and_programs/community_events/vfra_ice_fishing_contest.php

FEBRUARY 12TH

Galentine's Purse Bingo

Hackamore Brewing | 5:30 PM

The Southwest Metro Women in Biz are bringing some LOVE your way with a Galentine's Purse Bingo! Check in at 5:45pm and first BINGO numbers are called at 6:30pm. Get there early to snag your seats, enjoy food to purchase from the food truck, and Hackamore beverages from the bar! $25 for 10 rounds of BINGO. You might go home with a brand new bag — from Kate Spade, Lululemon, Michael Kors, Coach, and more! business.swmetrochamber.com/events/details/galentine-s-favorite-things-bingo-purses-gift-cards-cash-16903?calendarMonth=2026-02-01

FEBRUARY 14TH

Waconia Polar Plunge

Lola's Lakehouse | 12:00 PM

What better way to celebrate the day of love than by showing your community some love and taking the Polar Plunge! The Plunge helps support Special Olympics Minnesota athletes, and the Waconia Plunge has raised over $857,397 in its 5-year history. In 2025, 608 Plungers raised $193,154! Always a fun event, participants also receive incentives, prizes, and giveaways. www.plungemn.org

FEBRUARY 14TH

Star Power 2026

Waconia High School | 9:00 AM

Don't miss an evening of star power at the annual Waconia show choir's Star Power 2026! One of the premiere high school show choir events in the Midwest, Star Power will be held at Waconia High School on Saturday, February 14th. Last year’s annual competition featured performances by more than 20 choirs hailing from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Nebraska.

FEBRUARY 20TH

Candlelit Night at Baylor

Baylor Regional Park | 5:00 PM

Glide through candlelit trails on cross-country skis or throw on a pair of snowshoes and check out the luminaries. You can also climb aboard the hayride for a trip to the Eagle Lake Observatory and view the stars with the Minnesota Astronomical Society. After, slide around on some kicksleds, and then warm up with hot cocoa, cider, and s'mores! More details at carvercountymn.gov/departments/ public-works/parks-recreation/general-parks-information/events-activities/annual-special-events