Issuu

The Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

SEPTEMBER 19 SATURDAY 8-5

STREET DANCE | FRIDAY 9/18 | GENX JUKEBOX Supporting the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization STREET DANCE TICKETS

Shop, Sip & Dine

Arts | Crafts | Food

Car & Truck Show

3-on-3 Basketball

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Run

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Library Book Sale

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Your Signature Style I hope this letter finds you inspired and ready to embrace the beauty of self-expression. Style is such an extraordinary part of life — it’s far more than the clothes we wear or the accessories we choose. Style is woven into every detail of our existence, from the way we decorate our homes to the art and music we enjoy, the books we read, and even how we interact with the world around us. It’s the unique thread that creates the tapestry of who we are. What makes style so captivating is its deeply personal nature. It evolves alongside us as we explore new interests, embrace our quirks, and express what we value most. It’s a language without words, a powerful tool for connection that can bridge differences and spark shared understanding. Here in Waconia and Victoria, we’re fortunate to have endless opportunities to celebrate and explore style. Whether it’s through visiting local boutiques, supporting creative entrepreneurs, making upgrades to the place you call home inside and out, or simply drawing inspiration from our vibrant culture, there’s so much to ignite your creativity and lift your spirit. This month, I encourage you to think of style as an authentic expression of yourself. The most beautiful style is one that reflects who you truly are — your passions, your story, your individuality. And the incredible thing is that no one else in the world can replicate that. So go ahead, celebrate your unique style. Whether you’re exploring new trends, blending classic elements, or creating something entirely original, let this issue inspire you to embrace the power of self-expression. Here’s to being unapologetically and uniquely you! Cheers!

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Matt Shaeffer matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Lauren Beaubaire lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, Lauren Beaubaire, Amanda Wagner, Allison Bankston C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Trevor Jager, Wyatt Andreotti, Sophia Vickman

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

M AT T S H A E F F E R , P U B L I S H E R @ WAC O N I AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

IT’S TIME FOR CHANGE

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

14 Featured

24 28

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Back-to-School Style Our style experts share fall trends, athleisure favorites, and back-toschool fashions

Style From the Ground Up

Sage Flooring shares expert advice on choosing flooring that fits your style and lifestyle

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

Expert Help HOME + DESIGN

Education Corner HOME SERVICES

School Sports SPORTS + RECREATION

Events

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAGE

More Than Heating & Cooling

How Waconia Comfort is helping students discover the skilled trades

On the Cover From classroom drop-offs to after-school activities, Eleece Pink of The Stash and Megan VanEyll of Shape It Up Fitness share the must-have back-to-school fashion trends that blend comfort, confidence, and effortless style.

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Ridgeview Foundation’s Groovin’ on the Green event on June 28 and 29 raised more than $1 million to support Ridgeview Ambulance and local health care. The two-day event brought together community members for live music, family-friendly activities, fireworks, and a golf tournament. Proceeds help ensure rapid response services, advanced equipment and highly trained emergency professionals are available when every second matters. Photography by Dana Boll, Forever Young Photography, Waconia

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Blue Agave Tacos & Tequila Serves up Style and Tradition Blue Agave Tacos & Tequila restaurant is now open in Victoria! Located in the lower level of the Rowe Residences apartment building (7980 Rose St, Victoria), this elevated Mexican restaurant combines modern culinary style with Mexican tradition. The food, the company, the decor, and the patio combine for a truly unique, delicious experience. Photography by Blue Agave Tacos & Tequila

Harland Chicken & Fish Moves into Downtown Victoria

One of Victoria’s charming historic buildings is now home to Harland Chicken & Fish. Inspired by lake living and childhood memories, owner Eric Forsberg has created a menu of crispy fried chicken, classic fish and chips, and several lake fish options — rotating through the seasons. That same thoughtful approach extends to the design, which includes a gorgeous patio area overlooking a nearby trail, an amphitheater, Stieger Lake, and a welcoming and refined atmosphere. harlandusa.com

Waconia Comfort's Annual Fireplace Open House Waconia Comfort's Annual Fireplace Open House is on Thursday, September 17, from 4–7 PM at their downtown Waconia fireplace showroom. Explore 20+ beautiful live-burning gas, electric, and wood fireplace displays, enjoy event-only specials and giveaways, and receive expert guidance and design inspiration to help you find the perfect fireplace for your home. See why Waconia Comfort is the hottest spot in town as we kick off the cozy season. waconiacomfort.com

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OUR STYLE EXPERTS SHARE FALL FASHION TRENDS, ATHLEISURE FAVORITES, AND TIPS FOR EASING INTO A BUSY SCHOOL YEAR

BACK TO SCHOOL, BACK IN STYLE ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

FALL REFRESH

Styles from The Stash of Waconia

As families prepare for the return of school, many are refreshing more than just backpacks and schedules. Local business owners Eleece Pink of The Stash and Megan VanEyll of Shape It Up Fitness say this season is all about practical style, versatile pieces, and routines that support busy lifestyles.

FALL FASHION GETS A REFRESH

Eleece says one of the biggest shifts in fashion is that trends have become more accessible and easier to incorporate into existing wardrobes. “Fashion should feel attainable, not overwhelming,” says Eleece. This fall, shoppers are gravitating toward elevated basics, rich textures, relaxed denim, matching sets, and feminine details mixed with casual comfort. One trend that stands out above the rest is Western-inspired fashion, featuring Western prints, leather accents, turquoise jewelry, and statement belts. The seasonal color palette includes chocolate brown, olive green, deep burgundy, rust, camel, cream, and charcoal gray. Animal prints are also making a strong appearance this fall. Rather than replacing an entire wardrobe, Eleece recommends updating existing pieces with a few new additions, such as updated denim, a versatile jacket, fresh shoes, or accessories that can transform everyday basics.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL LOOKS FOR TEENS

When it comes to back-to-school style, comfort continues to drive choices for many students. “Teens are embracing relaxed, casual styles with personality,” says Eleece. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

Back-to-school athleisure looks from Shape It Up Fitness

ATHLEISURE LOOKS Wide-leg jeans, graphic sweatshirts, oversized flannels, fitted basics, and sneakers continue to dominate back-to-school wardrobes. Retro-inspired and suede sneakers are especially popular, while chunky loafers and ankle boots become more common as temperatures cool. At The Stash, high-rise wide-leg jeans, relaxed straight-leg styles, and barrel-leg silhouettes continue to be top sellers as shoppers look for pieces that are both comfortable and easy to dress up or down.

MOM STYLE MEETS REAL LIFE

For moms, versatility remains a priority. Eleece says busy schedules call for pieces that can transition easily throughout the day. “Busy moms need pieces that work as hard as they do,” she says. Her recommendation includes flattering denim, soft knit tops, versatile jackets, and stylish sneakers, along with layering pieces such as blazers, cardigans, denim jackets, and lightweight shackets.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

STYLE FOR LIFE IN MOTION

Western-inspired fashion has become a huge trend this fall.

ATHLEISURE CONTINUES TO RULE

At Shape It Up Fitness, Megan is seeing continued interest in athleisure and performance wear for both moms and kids. Matching sets, athletic dresses, leggings, and golf-inspired apparel continue to be popular options that easily transition from workouts to everyday activities. Megan also notes that shoppers now have access to more affordable alternatives that offer similar quality and performance to some premium athletic brands. “We love giving our customers options,” she says. “Our goal is to help people build a wardrobe they feel great in without feeling like they have to overspend.”

FUELING A BUSY SEASON

As schedules become busier during the school year, Megan encourages moms to prioritize their own health and well-being alongside their family’s commitments. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” she says.

She recommends strength training several times per week, focusing on protein and whole foods, staying hydrated, spending time outdoors, and protecting sleep whenever possible. “More energy doesn’t come from doing more,” she reminds us. “It comes from taking care of yourself consistently.” Megan also encourages moms to schedule workouts the same way they schedule other family commitments. “When movement becomes a non-negotiable part of your routine, you’ll have more energy, patience, confidence, and strength for everything else life throws your way,” she says. She adds that prioritizing health helps model healthy habits for children as well. As families head into the school year, both business owners encourage people to focus on what works for their lifestyle. From updated denim and versatile layers to movement and wellness, a few thoughtful changes can help ease the transition into fall. thestashstyle.com shapeitupfitnessmn.com

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Together, We Relay

Join the community for an evening of remembrance, celebration, and support in the fight against cancer ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Every year, communities worldwide gather to remember loved ones, honor survivors, and raise money to support research and advocacy efforts in the fight against cancer. On September 19, at 3:00 pm, Relay for Life Carver County is taking place at Waconia Lions Field, inviting people to come together in support, celebration, and hope for a future without cancer. In 1985, Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, turned his love of running into a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. As he ran — and raised $27,000 that year — he dreamed of a world without cancer and how this idea of running to raise money could grow. Since then, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life has spread from one event to 5,200 in the United States and in over 20 countries worldwide, raising billions of dollars to fund patient assistance, research, and education. While the event has expanded, its mission remains the same: to unite communities, to celebrate survivors, to remember those lost, and to support the fight against this disease. Co-leader of Relay for Life Carver County, Buffy Knopik, says this year they’ll be working closely with the Waconia

Baseball Association, which will be selling food and drink for all who come to support those on a cancer journey or remember someone lost to the disease. Luminaries can also be decorated with names and tributes, which will then be lit and placed along a walking path. “Caregivers and loved ones of those who have passed are remembered at the Luminaria Ceremony, a silent reflective walk held at dusk and led by our bagpiper.” The evening is full of meaningful moments, but connection and fun are also part of the experience. There will be games like Giant Jenga, lap Scrabble, bags, ladder golf, and a Pick-A-Prize fundraiser featuring a variety of prizes. Would you like to get involved? “The entire community is welcome to come out and show support and celebrate victories,” shares Buffy. There is no fee to attend, only the desire to come together in support and celebration. People can put a team together to raise funds and attend and/or walk at the event, and they’re always looking for volunteers to set up, clean up, and to add a few faces to the Event Leadership Team. Sponsorship opportunities and prize donations are also available year-round for anyone looking to show ongoing support for Relay For Life. To learn more about Relay for Life and how you can participate, visit www.relayforlife.org/carvercountymn

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THE EXPERTS AT SAGE FLOORING SHARE HOW TO CHOOSE FLOORING THAT FITS YOUR DESIGN STYLE AND LIFESTYLE

Are you a shoes-on or shoes-off household? While most fall firmly in one camp or the other, it doesn’t change the fact that your floors are one of the hardest-working surfaces in your home. Not only do they set the tone for every room, but they have to stand up to kids racing in with muddy boots, pets trying to bury treats in the living room carpet, spilled coffee, and just… everyday life. The best flooring strikes a balance between beauty and durability, complementing your home’s style while fitting the way you live. But where to start?

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STYLE FROM THE GROUND UP

“The first step in choosing flooring is identifying your goals,” says Pat Fabish, owner of Sage Flooring. “Are you focused on longevity and durability? Are you planning to sell your home, or are you remodeling because you want to love where you live? Those answers help determine which flooring makes the most sense. “Right now, luxury vinyl plank is incredibly popular. It’s great for most rooms, including kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms. This type of flooring is a great option because of its durability, long lifespan, and cost-effectiveness compared to hardwood. And if you have kids and pets, a luxury vinyl plank is a great choice. It can definitely take a beating and wear and tear. Mopping and cleaning it is easy, and you don’t have to worry as much about scratching up the finish from dog paws or if kids come running in with a rock in their shoe.” Along with luxury vinyl plank, Pat is seeing natural white oak hardwood flooring continuing to be a top choice. “Wider, 5-7 inch white oak is definitely trending still. I’m also seeing more sculpted, pattern carpets versus plush, solid-colored carpeting. Of course, you’ll always have your tried-and-true solid oak stained hardwood floors.

“Before, we were doing more greyish stains for hardwood. However, that trend has gone by the wayside, and instead, we’re doing more warm tones like light browns with a little grey tint in it,” says Pat. While those are the trending flooring styles at the moment, Pat says your personal design style and lifestyle matter most. “A past client of ours requested bright red carpet alongside blue-painted walls because she loves the Minnesota Twins. Another wanted dark, black carpeting for their kid’s room because that was their kid’s favorite. “However, if you’re not sure what style fits best, that’s where we come in,” says Pat. “The biggest regret I see homeowners have is not consulting an expert or professional. They go into a big box store where the staff may not have the experience or knowledge; for example, they may not know the difference between polyester and nylon carpeting and why you would want to choose one or the other. Remodeling your flooring is a big investment, and you want to have an expert — and expert installer — who does it right the first time.” Celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, Pat and his team at Sage Flooring have decades of expertise and experience under their belt, helping homeowners create spaces they love. “We’re one of the last trades to come in on a project,” says Pat. “Usually everything else is done except the flooring. And when we’re done, the flooring truly brings the project together. Seeing it all completed for the homeowner is my favorite part of the job because once the flooring is in, it looks finished, it’s cozy, and it becomes a home.” The right flooring is about finding the perfect balance between your personal style and the way you live. Because the best floors aren’t meant to be tiptoed around. They’re meant to be lived on. So bring on the muddy boots, playful pets, and everything in between. sageflooringmn.com

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MORE THAN

Heating & Cooling

Reese, who began as a summer intern in 2025, is now a full-time employee at Waconia Comfort

How Waconia Comfort is helping students discover the skilled trades

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | HOME SE RVICE S

Ask a room full of high school students what they plan to do after graduation, and many will answer with a college major or university name. But across Carver County, local businesses and educators are working together to remind students that there isn’t just one path to a successful career. Waconia Comfort is one of the local businesses helping open those doors. Through career fairs, classroom visits, Manufacturing Week activities, internship signing days, and hands-on demonstrations, the company is introducing students to careers they may never have considered—and showing them that fulfilling, in-demand opportunities exist right here in their own community. “It’s about making sure kids know what’s possible,” says General Manager Tim Willems. “There are so many rewarding careers available, but students can’t pursue opportunities they don’t know exist.” The effort is driven by local schools and supported by a growing network of manufacturers and businesses throughout the community. Representatives meet throughout the school year to coordinate career fairs, Manufacturing Week activities, internship signing days, and other opportunities that connect students with local employers. Waconia Comfort regularly participates in both the Waconia and Norwood Young America school districts, where students have the chance to explore careers ranging from manufacturing and welding to plumbing, HVAC, automotive repair, cabinetry, and more. Those experiences go far beyond handing out brochures. During Manufacturing Week, students have toured local businesses, visited production facilities, explored skilled manufacturing environments, and asked professionals candid questions about what their jobs actually look like. At career fairs, Waconia Comfort has embraced technology to make those conversations even more engaging, bringing virtual reality headsets that simulate real HVAC service calls. “The VR experience gives students something tangible,” Tim says. “Instead of simply telling them what we do, they can experience a small piece of it and start asking questions.” And those questions are exactly the point. For many students, careers in the skilled trades come with a few common stereotypes. Plumbing is about unclogging toilets. HVAC is about replacing furnaces. In reality, those jobs involve problem-solving, technology, and a wide range of specialized skills. CONTINUED >

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In reality, Tim says, technical skills can be taught. “What we’re really looking for is curiosity and work ethic,” he explains. “Are you willing to ask questions? Are you willing to learn? Those are the qualities that matter.” For many students, simply seeing someone from their own community in these careers makes a difference. As a parent, coach, and active community member, Tim often encounters students who know him from around town but have little idea what he does professionally. Those conversations frequently open the door to a new perspective on careers they may never have considered. The industry itself offers far more variety than many students realize. While technicians and plumbers are at the heart of the work, companies like Waconia Comfort also rely on professionals in design, marketing, customer service, purchasing, warehousing, and inventory management. There are opportunities for people who enjoy solving technical problems, working with customers, organizing operations, or keeping a business running behind the scenes. As the industry continues to grow, organizations are also working to introduce more women to careers in the trades and create a workforce that better reflects the communities they serve. For students who express interest, Waconia Comfort encourages the next step: reaching out directly. Rather than having a parent make the first phone call, Tim hopes students take the initiative themselves. That first conversation often leads to a ride-along or job shadow, giving students a firsthand look at what a day in the life of a skilled trades professional is really like. Sometimes the questions are simple. What does this tool do? How often do you climb on a roof? What’s a typical day like? But those practical conversations help replace assumptions with understanding. Many of those students eventually become employees. Just as importantly, they become members of the local workforce. “When young people discover careers right here in their own community, they’re more likely to stay, build their lives here, and contribute back to the place they grew up,” Tim says. The skilled trades also offer something many students are searching for: meaningful work with visible results. Every day presents a different challenge. A technician may diagnose an air conditioning system on one call, solve a plumbing issue on the

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | HOME SE RVICE S

next, and leave each customer with the satisfaction of knowing a problem has been fixed. “You get to solve problems,” Tim says. “You help people, you meet all kinds of different customers, and every day is different.” Looking ahead, Waconia Comfort hopes to continue expanding opportunities for students to experience the trades firsthand. While career fairs remain valuable, Tim believes some of the most impactful conversations happen in smaller settings… inside a shop classroom, during a field trip, or while students are gathered around a virtual reality headset asking questions they might not ask anywhere else. For a generation still discovering its future, those conversations matter. Whether a student chooses a university, a technical college, an apprenticeship, or another path entirely, the goal isn’t to steer them toward one destination. It’s to make sure they understand all of the possibilities available to them, and to remind them that a successful career can begin much closer to home than they ever imagined. waconiacomfort.com

EXPERIENCE POLAR ATHLETICS The Crown College Athletic Department is committed to authentically honoring Jesus Christ. Our staff, coaches, and student-athletes are committed to pursuing excellence and developing a culture that values commitment to humility, hard work, and teamwork.

For more information, call: 952.446.4142

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

Photography by Sophia Vickman, Holy Family Student Media Team

GAME ON Fall sports are back, bringing excitement to the fields and stands ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Photography by Wyatt Andreotti, Holy Family Student Media Team

GO WILD

GET FIRED UP

Mark your calendars! On Thursday, September 3, the Waconia Wildcat Football team hosts the Northfield Raiders for its home opener at 7pm. Led by Head Coach Corey Shea, it’s going to be another exciting season. So fill the stands for the kickoff, and get your tickets at the gate or online through GoFan. Their next home game will be against Mankato East High School on Friday, October 9. For the full schedule, visit waconiaathletics.com. Other fall athletics, including Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Soccer, will be on the road in September. Both teams will take on Benilde St. Margaret’s High School at Benilde on Tuesday, September 22, and Orono High School at Orono on Tuesday, September 29. Go, Wildcats!

S CH OOL SP ORTS | S P O RTS + RE CRE AT ION

Summer isn’t the only time of year when sports and activities heat up at Holy Family Catholic High School. The weather might cool off in the fall months, but the school's lineup of athletic programs is anything but. As you fill your fall calendar, be sure to save room to cheer on the Fire as they light up the season. The varsity football season at Holy Family kicks off with an exciting lineup as the team takes on the New London-Spicer Wildcats, the Jordan Hubmen, and the Howard Lake-WaverlyWinstead Lakers in their first few games. You’ll no doubt be at the edge of your bleacher seat watching this winning team, which has made multiple state appearances, including two title game

Photography by Trevor Jager

trips and sections and conference championships. This group of competitors is led by Connor Wilkie, who joined the program in 2025 after serving as an assistant coach at Augsburg University. Schedule here: hfchs.org/student-experience/athletics/football Under the leadership of 2021 Class A MSHSL Assistant Coach of the Year, Robb Richter, the boys’ varsity soccer team hits the turf in late August. These hard-working athletes are ones to watch as they look to continue a winning tradition that includes two Wright County Conference championships in the past five years and two state appearances, one in 2023 and the other in 2018. This high-energy group brings passion, energy, and a competitive spirit to the field that you won’t want to miss. Schedule here: hfchs.org/student-experience/athletics/boys-soccer Head coach Sophie Pawlyshyn is ready to kick off another season with the championship-winning girls’ varsity soccer team. The Fire will bring the spark, naturally, but they also bring a commitment to strong player development that has supported numerous alumni in continuing their careers at the college level. What you’ll find on the field is not only a team, but a family who builds one another up and pushes each player to reach their full potential. With accomplishments like a Wright County Conference Championship in 2022 and a thirdplace showing at the 2021 MSHSL State Tournament, they’re a force to be reckoned with. Schedule here: hfchs.org/student-experience/athletics/girls-soccer “I'm excited about what this fall has in store for Holy Family Athletics," says John Wardlow, Activities Director. "Across

our programs, we have talented student-athletes, dedicated coaches, and a culture that encourages every student to get involved, compete, and grow. We expect to see several of our teams enjoy outstanding seasons and make deep postseason runs. Whether it's football under the lights in our new stadium, soccer matches on our home field, or our teams on the tennis and volleyball courts, there's an energy on our campus that's hard to describe until you experience it.”

STAR TEAMS

Southwest Christian High School's football team takes the field for its first home game on Friday, September 11 at 5pm, facing Willmar High School at Westonka High School. Be sure to come out and cheer them on as they kick off another season of Friday night football and school pride. Be sure to also come out to support the Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Soccer teams, with the boys being led by Head Varsity Coach Derek Swanson and the girls by Head Varsity Coach Mark Anderson. The Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team will also be one to watch, with Head Coach Coral Hangge taking the helm and captains Evi Harsh, Avery Beckering, and Lydia Johnson leading the team. Avery Beckering, along with Isa Caven, recently became National Champions as Avery’s team took first in the USAV Junior National Championship and Isa’s team took first in the AAU Junior National Championship and received an All-American award. See the full SWCHS athletic schedule at: swchs.org/athletics/sports S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Back to School Shop at Shape It Up Athleisure

Pop Up Workout at the Victoria Burrow

Tuesday- Saturday 10-5p Sunday 11-3p

Dance Camp 13.0 | Sept 2 to Oct 21

August 27 | 5-6p

Fall 50+ Women’s Strength Series Tue 6-6:45p

Sweat & Social Event Saturday, August 29th | 8:30-10a includes a tasting from the new Olive and Elm Restaurant coming to Waconia. $40

Nickle Dickle Day Sale Saturday, Sept 19th | 8-5p

JOIN US THIS FALL & FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

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JOIN OUR MONTHLY WALK CLUB | GET STEPPING WITH SHAPE IT UP | $39 (PER MONTH) 34

FALL IS THE PERFECT TIME TO MAKE A MOVE As summer starts to wind down, homeowners begin thinking about what's next. Whether you're considering selling this fall or simply want to understand your home's current value, now is the right time to start the conversation.

CURIOUS WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

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Let’s Talk

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HEATHER REICHENBERGER REAL ESTATE

Waconia’s Hometown Agent! 11200 W 78th St, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Not intended to solicit if already under contract. Each office independently owned & operated. Licensed in MN.

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

SEPTEMBER 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

SEPTEMBER 3 R D

Waconia Wildcats Home Opener Waconia High School | 7:00 PM Mark your calendars! On Thursday, September 3, the Waconia Wildcat Football team hosts the Northfield Raiders for its home opener at 7pm. Fill the stands for the kickoff to this exciting season! Tickets are available at the gate or online through GoFan. For the full schedule, visit www. waconiaathletics.com. Go, Wildcats! SEPTEMBER 12TH

Nordic Music Festival Lion's Park, Victoria | 10:00 AM Don't miss this great festival! Nordic dancers, singers, instrumentalists, bands, and more will perform across three venues in Lion's Park. Check out the Nordic artists and crafters, showcasing their unique pieces, which will be available for purchase. There will also be a silent auction, plenty of good food, and sword-fighting demonstrations by the Viking Age Club. Admission and parking are free. sofn.com/ event/nordic-music-festival-2/. 10-5 SEPTEMBER 13TH

Grape Stomp Schram Vineyards Winery | 11:00 AM Round up your crew, lace up (or kick off) your shoes, and get ready to dive into one of the most fun-filled days of the season at Schram Vineyard's Grape Stomp! Whether you're stepping into the stomp bins or sipping and cheering from the sidelines, this is harvest-time energy at its best. The event runs from 11am-6pm. Buy your tickets at: schramvineyards.com/eventdetails/grape-stomp-2

EVE N TS

S E P T E M BE R 1 8T H

Nickle Dickle Eve Street Dance Downtown Waconia | 7:00 PM The Nickle Dickle Day party gets started the night before with a concert and street dance you won't want to miss. This year Gen X Jukebox performs. Gates open at 7pm and the band begins at 8pm. Event is 21+ with a cash bar. Tickets are $10. If you buy online before September 17, you'll be entered into a drawing for Chamber Bucks! d e s t i n at i o nwaco n i a .o rg /eve n t s / chamber-hosted-community-events/ nickle-dickle-eve/ S E P T E M BE R 1 9 T H

Nickle Dickle Day City Square Park, Waconia | 8:00 AM Don’t miss one of Waconia’s best days! From 8am to 5pm, shop and take in all the great food and drink deals with friends, grab the family to watch duck races and the 3 on 3 basketball tournament, run in a Nickle Dickle Day race, peruse the library book sale, listen to live music, and so much more. More details at destinationwaconia.org/events/ chamber-hosted-community-events/ nickle-dickle-day/ S E P T E M BE R 2 1 ST

Victoria Fire Department Community Open House New Victoria Fire Station, 8250 Kochia Lane, Victoria | 5:30 PM The annual Victoria Fire Department Open House is back, bringing you an interactive experience to meet our local heroes and learn how you can prepare for fire emergencies at home! There will be hands-on activities hosted throughout the night, including riding in a fire truck, trying out your skills with a fire hose, and making your way through a smoky house.

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ WACONIA S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

ARTICLE BY ALLISON BANKSTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • •

1 bottle, standard size, of pinot grigio 2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider 1 cup club soda 1/2 cup ginger brandy 3 honey crisp apples, chopped 3 pears, chopped

DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients together and stir. Refrigerate for an hour or so (or longer) before serving. The drink can be enjoyed immediately, if desired, but the longer you let the ingredients sit and mix, the deeper the flavors will be. Giving it time to develop will make the drink more captivating and interesting.

NOTE: Regular brandy can be used, but ginger brandy gives it an extra kick of flavor.

APPLE CIDER

sangria A LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL TREAT

As the season transitions into fall, it still features the warm, sunny days of summer but nights start to drop into the crisp temperatures. That leaves us in the limbo of wanting cool, refreshing drinks part of the time but also craving the deeper, spice-infused flavors of autumn. This recipe for apple cider sangria is the perfect blending of the seasons, leaving you feeling both refreshed and warmed through the deep flavors and interesting hints of spice. It’s a great drink to add to any dinner party, cocktail gathering, back deck after-hours get-together, or birthday bash. Here’s what you need to make the perfect mid-season cocktail to enhance whatever event you have planned.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

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