Wayzata’s lakeshore will come alive September 5–7 as the community gathers for the 51st annual James J. Hill Days, a celebration that honors the town’s history while showcasing its vibrant present. Organized by the Wayzata West Metro Chamber of Commerce, the festival is expected to draw more than 80,000 visitors to Lake Street and downtown Wayzata, where music, food, family fun, and history meet on the shores of Lake Minnetonka.
The Empire Builder’s Legacy
The railroad first reached Wayzata in 1867 with the St. Paul & Pacific line, linking the village to Minneapolis and St. Paul. More than a decade later, James J. Hill took over the struggling railroad and expanded it into the Great Northern, securing Wayzata’s place along a transcontinental route. Known as the “Empire Builder,” Hill championed the power of rail to shape communities. For Wayzata, that meant the arrival of summer tourists, thriving commerce, and ultimately the construction of the iconic Wayzata Depot—a landmark that still stands as a testament to the city’s rail era.
The festival bearing his name, founded in 1975, has grown into a regional tradition. Each September, Wayzata’s downtown transforms into a living reminder of its past—yet with a decidedly modern flair.
Music, Food, and Fireworks
Festivities begin Friday, September 5 at 5 p.m. with live music on the Sandvold Stage at Minnetonka and Lake Street. The weekend lineup includes acts like Private Oates, Stereo Kitchen, High & Mighty, Powertap, and Taylor Robert with Roll N Soul, along with family favorites like Dance Esteem and ACES & 88’s Dueling Pianos.
The Rails & Ales Craft Beer Festival, also Friday evening, offers unlimited tastings from 25 breweries paired with live music by Coyote Wild. Foodies can explore more than 20 food trucks along the festival corridor. That same evening, families will gather on the Great Lawn for a free outdoor screening of Cars, featuring Lightning McQueen presented by Wayzata Sailing.
Carnival rides will run all weekend along the lakeshore: Friday 5–10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Discounted tickets are available at Lunds & Byerlys Wayzata until Thursday, September 4.
Wayzata Traditions, Old and New
Some of James J. Hill Days’ most beloved traditions return for 2025:
- The Grand Parade, Sunday at 3 p.m., will close the festival with marching bands, floats, and community groups.
- Dachshund Races and Costume Contest, Saturday from 12–2 p.m., following the Lake Walk Pack Walk at 10 a.m..
- The Coaster Cart Derby, a throwback to small-town Americana, Saturday morning 9am -12:30pm on the hill by Broadway Avenue.
- The T-6 Thunder Airshow, Sunday at 2:45 p.m., with vintage aircraft flying over Wayzata Bay.
- Guided Historical Walking Tours, hosted by the Lake Minnetonka Historical Society, weaving tales of the Dakota people, early settler Oscar Garrison, the grand hotel era, and the city’s railroad years.
At every turn, the festival nods to Wayzata’s layered story: from Dakota homelands to steamboat docks, from James J. Hill’s rail line to today’s thriving lake community.
A Marketplace by the Water
The James J. Hill Days Street Market will bring 175 vendors to Lake Street, offering everything from handcrafted goods to local foods (Friday 5–9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.). New in 2025, festivalgoers can sample free pizza at the Frigidaire Platinum Sponsor Showcase, featuring the launch of the Frigidaire Gallery Range with Stone-Baked Pizza Mode.
For athletes, the Battle of the Paddles Pickleball Tournament returns September 6–7 at the Wayzata Depot Pickleball Plaza, while boat lovers can enjoy free rides on Lake Minnetonka, courtesy of Your Boat Club, on Saturday from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Panoway and the Lakewalk: Wayzata’s Front Porch for Festival Weekend
During James J. Hill Days, the Panoway on Wayzata Bay and its Lakewalk become a natural gathering place for the community. Visitors take in views of Lake Minnetonka, stop along the shoreline to enjoy food and music, or simply wander the open spaces with family and friends.
The Lakewalk offers a direct connection to the same waterfront once lined with steamboat docks and railway depots. Today, it reflects both Wayzata’s history and its future, framing the festival with panoramic lake views that remind everyone why this town has long been a place to come together.
Community Spirit
At its heart, James J. Hill Days is about more than music and markets. It’s about community pride. Organized by the Chamber and supported by dozens of local sponsors—including presenting partner Sandvold Financial Group—the festival is staffed by volunteers who keep the three-day event free and welcoming.
Wayzata’s tradition of gathering at the water’s edge is centuries old. From Dakota encampments to steamboat arrivals, from Gilded Age summer cottages to today’s bustling main street, the town has always been defined by shared moments on the shore. James J. Hill Days carries that forward, reminding residents and visitors alike that Wayzata is both historic and alive, rooted and rising.
For the full schedule, visit JamesJHillDays.com or follow @jamesjhilldays.
