Wayzata Chilly Open: One of Minnesota’s Coolest Winter Events on Lake Minnetonka

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable Twin Cities winter activity, the Wayzata Chilly Open belongs at the top of your list. This iconic Wayzata event combines golf, winter adventure, local food, and lakeside fun — all played out on the frozen surface of Lake Minnetonka.

Held annually in Wayzata, the Chilly Open transforms Wayzata Bay into a frozen playground filled with ice-golf courses, chili cook-offs, live music, and thousands of bundled-up participants ready to embrace winter the Minnesota way.

What Is the Wayzata Chilly Open?

The Wayzata Chilly Open is a legendary winter tradition that’s been drawing crowds for decades. Instead of fairways and greens, golfers play directly on the ice using tennis balls and custom ice-cut holes. It’s playful, competitive, and completely unique to Minnesota.

Whether you’re swinging a club, cheering from the sidelines, or just there for the chili and atmosphere, this event delivers a full day of winter fun and community spirit.

Wayzata Chilly Open Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Location: Wayzata Bay on Lake Minnetonka, Wayzata, Minnesota
Event Type: Pre-ticketed winter festival and ice golf tournament
Weather Dependent: Event is held on the frozen lake, pending ice conditions

This is a ticketed event and advance tickets are required to participate.

For tickets and how to sign up: https://365twincities.com/WayzataChillyOpen2026

Ice Golf on Frozen Lake Minnetonka

The heart of the Wayzata Chilly Open is its ice golf tournament. Organizers create multiple nine-hole courses directly on the ice of Wayzata Bay, offering scheduled tee times throughout the day.

Ticket Options

Amateur Ticket
Includes:

  • Nine holes of ice golf

  • Official Wayzata Chilly Open hat

  • Access to the 19th Hole hospitality tent

  • All-you-can-eat chili from local restaurants

  • Live music, prizes, and giveaways

Pro (VIP) Ticket
Includes everything in the Amateur ticket, plus:

  • Breakfast brunch at 6Smith

  • Preferred tee time selection

  • Heated indoor check-in

  • Exclusive VIP Chilly Open hat

Each golfer must have their own ticket to participate.

More Than Golf: Winter Activities & Highlights

You don’t need to golf to enjoy the Chilly Open. The event offers plenty of ways to soak up the winter fun.

Snowga on the Ice

Start the day with Snowga, a free outdoor yoga session held right on the frozen lake. It’s a refreshing and surprisingly energizing way to kick off a winter Saturday in Wayzata.

Chili Cook-Off & Live Music

Local restaurants bring their best recipes to the Chilly Open Chili Cook-Off. Attendees can sample a wide variety of chili while enjoying live music and a lively lakeside atmosphere.

Warm-Up at 6Smith

The nearby 6Smith restaurant hosts a special Chilly Open brunch buffet, giving attendees a cozy place to warm up before or after hitting the ice.

What to Know Before You Go

  • This is a pre-ticketed event only; tickets must be purchased in advance

  • Dress in warm layers and wear sturdy winter boots

  • Costumes are encouraged and add to the fun

  • Alcohol sales are not permitted on the ice

  • Event activities are weather and ice-condition dependent

Why the Wayzata Chilly Open Is a Minnesota Bucket-List Event

Few Wayzata events capture the spirit of Minnesota winter quite like the Wayzata Chilly Open. From golfing on frozen Lake Minnetonka to enjoying chili, music, and winter sunshine, it’s a celebration of cold-weather fun done right.

Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or just looking for a memorable weekend experience, the Wayzata Chilly Open is one of the most talked-about Twin Cities winter activities — and for good reason.

Bundle up, grab your friends, and experience winter in Wayzata at its absolute best.

For tickets and how to sign up: https://365twincities.com/WayzataChillyOpen2026