Welcome to December
It always sneaks up on us, but here we are, December has arrived, and Shawnee is already buzzing with holiday energy. Main Street is lighting up, local shops are rolling out their best gift ideas, and our business community is gearing up for a month full of celebration, connection, and closing out the year on a high note.
This season is a good reminder of why our community is special. Whether it’s a local business decorating their storefront, a nonprofit hosting a holiday drive, or neighbors gathering for traditions old and new, December brings out the best in Pottawatomie County. It’s a chance to slow down just enough to enjoy the people around us while still keeping one eye on the opportunities ahead.
As you plan your month, make space to shop local, attend a networking event or two, and show some support to the businesses and organizations that make our community feel like home. A lot of good things happened this year, and December gives us one final stretch to celebrate them together.
From all of us at Shawnee Forward, we hope this month brings you plenty of joy, connection, and meaningful moments both inside and outside your business. Wishing you a December filled with wonderful memories!
-Daniel
Director of Operations
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| How does your business celebrate the holiday season? | | | | SF101 MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP | |
Wrap Up the Year at Our Final SF 101
We’re closing out 2025 with one last SF101 on Thursday, December 18, and it’s a great chance to set yourself up for success in the new year.
If you want to get more out of your membership in 2026, this session will walk you through the programs, events, and resources available to help you connect, grow, and stay plugged into the business community. Whether you’re new to Shawnee Forward or just looking for a refresh, you’ll leave with clear next steps and fresh ideas.
Thursday, December 18 at 8:45 AM
| | HOST A BEFORE OR AFTER HOURS IN 2026 | | |
We Asked, and You Answered!
You told us the number one thing you want from your chamber membership is more networking opportunities. In 2026, in addition to our regular programming, you’ll have 24 chances to grow your network through our Social Exchange series.
Social Exchange events will take place on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month:
- 1st Thursday: Business Before Hours | 8:00–9:15 AM
- 3rd Thursday: Business After Hours | 5:00–6:30 PM
We’re looking for member businesses who want to open their doors, showcase their space, and connect with fellow members in a relaxed networking setting. There is no cost to host. Hosts are simply asked to provide light snacks, drinks, and a fun giveaway item that can be raffled off during the event.
Several 2026 dates have already been secured, so if you’d like to host a Social Exchange and put your business at the center of the conversation, please reach out to Daniel at the office or by email ASAP to lock in your date.
| | Holiday Business After Hours with Sovereign Bank | | |
Our biggest after-hours event of the year is almost here, and you won’t want to miss it.
Last year’s Holiday Business After Hours was packed, lively, and full of great connections, and this year is shaping up to be even bigger. Sovereign Bank always knows how to host a party, and they’re opening their doors once again for an evening of networking, giveaways, refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.
Break out your pastels and help us close out 2025 with one of the most fun events on our calendar.
Thursday, December 18
5:30–7:00 PM
Sovereign Bank | 130 E. MacArthur
Make plans to be there, and let us know you’re coming by scanning the QR code or clicking the registration link below.
This is the one you won’t want to skip. See you there!
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5 Must-Know Retail Trends for the 2025 Holiday Season
This season, shoppers are spending more carefully, prioritizing value, convenience, and tools like AI to stretch their budgets, giving retailers who adapt early the chance to win over a cautious market. Explore this year’s trends shaping the holiday season to stand out and strengthen sales amidst a subdued spending environment.
| | | Click on each image to learn more. | | Friday, December 12, watch as Downtown Shawnee comes alive with lights, marching bands, floats, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Psst... watch until the end for a breathtaking fireworks display! | | |
Winter Wonderland is here in historic downtown Shawnee!
This exciting holiday event has transformed the Santa Fe Depot into a festive gathering place filled with music, lights, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The highlight of the season will be the featured ice rink, along with a variety of attractions for all ages to enjoy.
Everyone is invited to spend an evening in downtown Shawnee, grab dinner at one of our fantastic local restaurants, then head over to Winter Wonderland for sweet treats available for purchase from holiday-themed food trucks. Classic Christmas movies will play on the jumbo screen throughout the season, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Event Dates:
• December 5 & 6
• December 13
• December 19 & 20
All evenings from 6:00–10:00 p.m.
They’ll also feature special guest entertainment on select nights to make each visit memorable.
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Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?
If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!
Miss a Newsletter?
If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.
| | Thank you, ShawneeCTV, for your generous sponsorship of our newsletter, "In the Know". Your support enables us to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest updates and events. | | Shawnee Forward | 405-273-6092 |
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