Howdy Chamber Members!

We're so excited to announce that our surprise Winter Wonderland Pop-Up will be held at the soon-to-be Dandelion Bookshop located at 149 S. Oak Park Ave. We're so grateful for the owner, Jamie, in helping us Keep the Cheer Here and allowing us to use her space to rally up community spirit in Oak Park! Go Jamie!

While we don't want to give too much away... expect to see some amazing stuff during our pop-up like: free gift wrapping, hot cider, photo ops, and so much more! Did we mention that Jamie and a few other folks will be vending during this event? Or have I said too much? Remember, this is a "secret" pop-up between all of you and me!

Last Friday, Darien and I spent the day visiting retail storefronts in the community to share details about the Gift Card portion of the Keep the Cheer Here program. I walked away from so many conversations that day reminded of why I love what I do. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear community members acknowledge the work we’ve been doing at the Chamber and to offer a program they’ve been asking for—one that meets their needs. Moments like these make the cold walks around town all the worthwhile! If you know someone who can benefit from this program, encourage them to apply today! It's completely free and an excellent excuse for unfamiliar folks to visit your storefront!

If you've already applied, find out how you can purchase your own gift cards, submit your holiday events to us, or read more about the upcoming surprise Winter Wonderland Pop-Up for next weekend.

And to all my small business owners: Hang in there! You're doing awesome! Things always fall into place and don't forget that rest is equally as important as being productive.

Warmly,

Michelle Valle-Flores

Marketing and Administration Manager OPRF Chamber

OUR WEBSITE IS LIVE!

Join us for the Frosty Affair Holiday Market, where festive shopping meets the local charm of Oak Park! Discover a curated selection of unique products and services from local retailers, all set in a magical holiday atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this enchanting shopping experience!

Food Vendors, we need your help to make the 8th Annual Bite Nite 2025, the most delicious event of the year!

Warm up a crowd this winter by serving unforgettable culinary delights and/or drinks. We'll take care of the rest! The Nineteenth Century Club's historic ballroom will be filled with live music and hungry guests!

We're carefully picking over 30 local eateries, caterers, and food brands for ONE NIGHT ONLY to treat food enthusiasts to an array of savory bites and sweet treats. 

Ready to take on the challenge to serve your specialties to locals?

Sign up today!

Like to plan ahead? Plan Your Month!

Here are some events we have coming up over the next month so you can register now and receive a reminder right before the event.

Tuesday Dec 10,

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

The Holiday BAH hosted by Byline Bank is always one of the biggest Chamber networking events of the year - expect 100+ attendees, delicious food, festive decor, and a celebratory spirit in the air!

Friday Dec 13,

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Join us in December for an end-of-year Women in Business informal gathering. As in previous years, the December meeting will be a welcoming space to reflect on the year, swap survival strategies for the holidays, and express hopes for new beginnings--with a little more time than usual for networking following the discussion.

Thursday Dec 19,

2:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Perfect for new members and those who need a refresher. This fast-paced seminar will review all of your digital benefits to maximize your digital advantage.

Friday Dec 20,

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Join us for Meet Me for Lunch at Rustico! A favorite for chamber members: enjoy a business lunch in a casual setting, with small group networking. Come enjoy the food while you connect and get to know Chamber members

Check out what our partners are up to!

Here are some upcoming events from our community partners that we think you'll benefit from! Click into each flyer to learn more.



Join the SBA Illinois webinar in support of the 15th annual Small Business Saturday and Season of Small. We will present tips on how to Prepare Your Small Business for the Holidays! 

Let's Stay Connected!

Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce

141 S Oak Park Avenue, Suite 3 Oak Park, IL 60302

708.613.0550 | info@oprfchamber.org | www.oprfchamber.org