WACONIA
COMMUNITY GUIDE 2026
A hot spot for premier fitness events
Lake Waconia and the surrounding area provide an ideal setting for outdoor recreation, making Waconia a popular destination for running, walking and other fitness-oriented events throughout the year.
One of the area’ s premier fitness events is the Lola’ s Lake Waconia Run, held each year in early May. The event offers race options for participants of all ages and abilities, including a half marathon, 10-mile race, 5K, relay race and kids run. Now in its second year as a partnership bringing together runners, families and community members, the event showcases the scenic beauty of Lake Waconia while creating a high-energy atmosphere focused on fitness, community and philanthropy.
The race attracts approximately 2,000 participants and serves as a major fundraiser for Gather & Grow Food Shelf. Proceeds from the event help provide food
and essential resources to local families experiencing hardship, with fundraising supported through event sponsorships and donations made by participants during registration. In addition to running or walking, community members can participate by forming relay teams, volunteering or becoming event sponsors.
Following the race, participants and spectators gather for post-race festivities, food and entertainment, making the event a community celebration as well as a fitness challenge.
Later in the year, Waconia’ s annual Nickle Dickle Day celebration includes a 10K run, 5K run / walk and the popular Tickle Run, a half-mile race designed for children. Together, these events help promote healthy lifestyles while bringing residents and visitors together to enjoy the natural beauty and strong sense of community that define the Waconia area.
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