In a recent interview with one of the original founders of Nickle Dickle Day, Paul Melchert, I had the privilege of diving into the history of how this beloved Waconia tradition came to be. The concept for Nickle Dickle Day was born from a simple question: How do we get people to shop downtown for a great deal?
The Birth of a Waconia Tradition
In the early 1960s, business owners in Waconia sought to create an event that would draw people into town, offering both fun and promotions. According to Melchert the idea originated at a meeting of local merchants at the Waco Café, which today is known as the Iron Tap. There, merchants gathered to brainstorm, and later meetings were held at City Hall. The common goal was to bring more foot traffic to local businesses. The merchants knew they needed to offer something special to attract people to Waconia’s streets.
With card tables set up on the sidewalks, the businesses in town offered promotions. These early efforts laid the groundwork for what would become one of Waconia’s signature events.
Naming the Event: A Blend of History and Creativity
While many towns hosted “Crazy Days,” the business community of Waconia wanted something more memorable. They needed a name that would reflect the charm of the town while also showcasing a good deal.
The idea of “nickel” promotions was born. Local bars served beer for just a nickel, and churches joined in by selling Sloppy Joes at the same price. The town was united around the idea of providing an incredible deal. The “dicker” aspect—rooted in the German word for bargaining—was a nod to heritage and the fun spirit of the day.
Nickle Dickle Day was born, blending the spirit of deals and bartering.
A Favorite Memory: Ping Pong Ball Prizes
One of the most memorable stories shared by Kim Mackenthun, another key figure in Nickle Dickle Day’s history, involved the excitement of the ping pong ball prize drop. As Kim recalls, “We had hundreds of people gathered, waiting for the balls to drop out of an airplane. Each ping pong ball had a prize printed on it, and the scramble to collect them was a sight to see.”
But the excitement reached a whole new level when people began climbing onto rooftops to get balls that had landed on business rooftops and had been stuck in gutters. “It was a scramble to get everything under control, but it was all part of the fun!” Kim laughed, reminiscing on the chaos and joy that made those early days so special.
A Lasting Legacy
What started as a simple promotion has grown into a cherished annual celebration that continues to draw thousands to Waconia. From its humble beginnings with sidewalk sales and nickel deals to the vibrant event it is today, Nickle Dickle Day embodies the community’s spirit of collaboration.
As we look forward the 63rd Annual Nickle Dickle Day, it’s a reminder of how far a great idea—along with community spirit—can go. As you enjoy the festivities, take a moment to remember the small group of dedicated Waconia business owners who turned the idea of shopping local to one of the most enduring traditions in our town’s history.
See you at Nickle Dickle Day!
-Christine
President, Waconia Chamber of Commerce
