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Chamber Advantage
May 11th, 2025
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It’s that time of year, flowers start to bloom, people open their windows, and no one can figure out what to wear for the weather today. It’s spring and that means it’s time for Out in the Burbs!
I’m so excited to see this event grow into its own streetfest, a time for the community to get out, embrace the LGBTQ community, and experience all that the business community has to offer. It’s amazing to see how far the OPRF community has come in supporting the LGBTQ community, and by that what I really mean is people supporting their friends and neighbors. This is another great opportunity to get your business out in front of the entire community either as a vendor, sponsor, or just as a patron.
Out in the Burbs promises to be family fun for the entire community large and small. I can’t wait to see all of you there!
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Matthew Johnston
Real Estate Broker
Fulton Grace
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GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON FIRST FRIDAYS
A new summer series is coming to Oak Park — and your business can be a part of it.
Join us at a Business Gathering & Info Session to learn how First Fridays will bring food, music, and community energy to local business districts. We’ll walk through what to expect, how to participate, and answer all your questions. No pressure — just the details (and maybe a snack).
Pick your district and join us:
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Tuesday, May 20
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Oak–Leyden
411 W Chicago Avenue
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Thursday, May 22
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Whirlwind Coffee Co.
513 Madison Street
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Thursday, May 29
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Kettlestrings Tavern
800 S Oak Park Avenue
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PUT YOUR BRAND ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF PRIDE
Out in the Burbs isn’t just a celebration — it’s a statement. As one of the region’s most LGBTQ+-inclusive communities, Oak Park invites you to align your brand with a movement rooted in visibility, belonging, and community care. Sponsoring means connecting with values-driven consumers who support businesses that stand for equality.
Let’s make Out in the Burbs 2025 bold, joyful, and deeply meaningful — together.
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Click on any graphic to get more information about the event and to sign up.
Explore what's in store, including fun and educational activities happening throughout.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the excitement!
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SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE: BECOME A BLEND SPEAKER
BLEND — Oak Park’s Black & Latine Business Support Network — is more than a program. It’s a platform for building power, connection, and community among local entrepreneurs.
From peer collaboration to expert-led sessions, BLEND supports both emerging and established business owners with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to thrive. We're celebrating brilliance, amplifying voices, and growing a more inclusive local economy — together.
Are you a business leader with knowledge to share?
Apply to be a BLEND speaker and help shape the future of entrepreneurship in Oak Park.
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JOIN US AT A DAY IN OUR VILLAGE
Celebrate community and promote your business at one of Oak Park’s most beloved events! The Chamber will host a shared tent at A Day in Our Village, and Chamber members can sign up for a one-hour slot to engage with residents, pass out materials, and connect with neighbors.
This is a great chance to raise your visibility—bring branded gear, giveaways, and your best pitch for why local business matters.
Spots are limited—one per member.
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LEVEL UP YOUR SKILLS WITH DTOP'S BUSINESS ACADEMY
This spring, Downtown Oak Park (DTOP) invites local business owners and managers to sharpen their skills through four engaging Business Academy sessions. Whether you're looking to lead better, communicate more effectively, or build stronger connections, these workshops are for you.
Upcoming Sessions at The Nineteenth Century Club (178 Forest Ave):
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May 20: Building Relationships
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May 27: The Art of Persuasion
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June 3: Managing Interpersonal Conflict
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June 10: Leadership
Cost: Free for DTOP business members; just $10/session for all other Oak Park businesses.
| | SUMMER VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES | | |
River Forest Memorial Day Parade – May 26
Showcase your business along the parade route and engage with families celebrating local pride and tradition.
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Out in the Burbs – June 7
Join us for Oak Park’s LGBTQ+ Pride festival—an all-day celebration of inclusion, visibility, and community featuring drag performances, music, food, and more.
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Juneteenth Celebration – June 19
Be part of a powerful day honoring Black freedom and culture. This event features music, art, vendors, and community programming in partnership with local organizations.
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If you’re looking to grow your audience, meet new customers, and be part of something meaningful, this is your opportunity.
Vendor spots are limited. Learn more and sign up today
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