News & Events from the Lafayette Chamber | | |
Artisan Walk
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11am-3pm
Lafayette Business Women at Pillar Cowork
Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 5:15pm-6:30pm
Ribbon Cutting at Gymboree Play & Music, Lafayette
Friday, May 16, 2025, 9am-9:30am
Taste of Lafayette Restaurant Stroll
Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 5pm-7:30pm
Lafayette Chamber Connectors at Creekside Commons
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 8:15am-9:30am
Lafayette Chamber Young Professionals at Abio Properties
Thursday, May 22, 2025, 5:30pm-7pm
Virtual "Coffee" with the City of Lafayette Mayor Susan Candell
Friday, May 30, 2025, 8am-9am
JOINT Nonprofit Network: Lafayette and Concord Chambers at the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa
Wednesday, June 4, 8:30am-10am
Rock The Plaza Summer Concert Series
Fridays, June: 6, 13, 20, 27
Lafayette Chamber Mixer and Vendor Fair
Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 5pm-7pm
➡ Lafayette Chamber Events Calendar ⬅
More events from our members!
Lafayette Community Events Calendar
Nonprofit Email Blast (Current issue May 2025)
Arts Community Blast (Current issue April-May 2025)
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Lafayette Artisan Walk
Shop local, support local!
Save the date for the Artisan Walk, Saturday, May 10, 11am-3pm.
The Lafayette Chamber’s Retail sub-committee is excited to announce and promote a collaborative shopping event between Lafayette’s retail businesses and local artists. Shop Lafayette the day before Mother’s Day. Hours may vary by store.
Businesses throughout Lafayette will be showcasing local artisan items – perfect gifts for upcoming occasions – Mother’s Day, Graduation, Father’s Day.
REGISTER FOR A REMINDER and be one of the first to know about upcoming Chamber events by being subscribed to the Lafayette Chamber’s events email blasts.
| | List of Participating Businesses: | | |
OUR MAY EMAIL BLASTS ARE SPONSORED BY
Treehouse Wealth Advisor
| | WELCOME OUR NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS | | |
The following businesses/organizations recently joined the Lafayette Chamber! We encourage you to visit their website to learn more.
Debbie's German Delights
Elk Grove, CA
Deborah Shepard, DebbiesGermanDelights.com
Debbie’s German Delights crafts fresh, small-batch candied almonds using an authentic German nut roaster. They bring old-world charm to local markets and festivals with nostalgic flavors, eco-friendly packaging, and an unforgettable, aromatic live-roasting experience.
Category: Restaurants, Food & Beverage
Mona Floral Design
6605 Las Animas Drive, Martinez, CA
Mona Amanat, monafloraldesign.com
Mona Floral Design is a boutique floral studio offering custom arrangements for weddings, memorials, and events. Known for timeless elegance and heartfelt service, we bring floral artistry to Lafayette and the greater East Bay.
Category: Advertising & Marketing, Business & Professional Services
| | THANK YOU, RENEWING CHAMBER MEMBERS | | Anniversary Announcements |
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Celebrating 10 Years with the Chamber!
Supervisor Candace Andersen marks her 10-year anniversary as a member of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce. The Lafayette Chamber’s mission “To promote and maintain a healthy business climate and to preserve and enhance the quality of life in Lafayette” is an integral part of what makes Lafayette and the surrounding communities so desirable in which to live and work. The Chamber remains the principal advocate for the business community, working to promote businesses in town and encouraging new enterprises to locate here. Supervisor Andersen recognizes the significance and importance of being a Chamber member given the important role they play in creating a thriving community.
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Lafayette Community Day: Thank You to Our Board Members, Ambassadors & Partners!
A big thank you to the Board Members and Ambassadors who joined Grace, Maya, Tabitha, Sara and the Chamber staff in supporting this past weekend’s Lafayette Community Day.
Shout out to: Bill, Christine, Diane, Kathy, Kimberly, Matt, Niroop, Mike, Reid, Terry and Yolanda! Your presence helped make the event even more meaningful, and your commitment to service continues to make the Chamber and our community proud.
We’re also grateful to the City of Lafayette and the Community Foundation of Lafayette, along with the key sponsors PG&E and Republic Services, for collaborating to bring this special event to life.
A huge shout out to Karen Maggio, Christine Raymond, Mayor Susan Candell and Suzy Pak for spearheading this endeavor—your leadership made the difference.
And of course, thank you to all our Chamber Members and Community Members who came out to support or participate—you are what makes Lafayette such a special place.
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Contra Costa Shark Tank
Congratulations to Maya Hammerman, Lafayette Chamber Student Ambassador, for hosting a tremendously successful event on Thursday evening at the Lafayette Library!
The 2025 Contra Costa Shark Tank drew over 300 submissions, with 10 impressive finalists presenting their ideas live to a panel of four “Sharks.” Prize money was awarded to three standout winners following an exciting evening of innovation and inspiration.
Special thanks to Lafayette Chamber Board President Matt Pease for serving as one of the judges, along with Christine Raymon of PG&E and Nichole Powell from Kinfield. We’re incredibly proud of Maya for bringing together students, entrepreneurs, and business leaders in such a powerful way!
Learn more at https://contracostasharktank.org.
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Lafayette Business Women at Pillar Cowork
Lafayette Business Women will meet at Pillar Cowork.
Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 5:15pm-6:30pm
Special presentation by Alma Glavan, Regional Communications Manager, Better Business Bureau.
Alma Galvan is the Media and Community Engagement Lead at the Better Business Bureau, where she began her career in 2005. With nearly two decades of experience, Alma has been a champion for ethical business practices, small business growth, and consumer protection throughout the Bay Area. A proud graduate of Sacramento State University, she leads initiatives that foster trust in the marketplace and support underrepresented entrepreneurs. Alma is passionate about building community connections and helping businesses thrive through education, outreach, and strategic partnerships.
Register here!
Lafayette Business Women is Co-Chaired by Carine Camara, CARRINNA and Katie Santos, Consulting-Fitness HR. Sponsorship opportunities are available for future events. Fill out the sponsorship opportunities form here.
📷 Holly Sonne, Alma Galvan, and Sara Regan
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Ribbon Cutting at Gymboree Play & Music, Lafayette
Please join us for a Ribbon Cutting at Gymboree Play & Music, Lafayette. We will celebrate their new ownership!
We will cut the ribbon at 9:10am SHARP.
Friday, May 16, 9AM - 10AM
Gymboree Play & Music, 3450 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
Click here for Open Gym during the Ribbon Cutting. Parents must be present.
Click below for a reminder!
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Taste of Lafayette Restaurant Stroll
Lafayette’s Favorite Dinner Party – The “Taste of Lafayette” Restaurant Stroll! Friends, Food & Entertainment
Tuesday, May 20, 5PM - 7:30PM
Downtown Lafayette - Lafayette Plaza is located at the corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Rd., 3535 Plaza Way, Lafayette
The “stroll” begins when ticket holders head out at their own pace to stop at any or all of the participating restaurants for sampling. Will call will be at Lafayette Plaza 5pm-6:30pm. Participating restaurants are open for tasting 5:30pm-7:30pm. Evening includes music in Lafayette Plaza.
Tickets are now sold out. Please join the waitlist here.
All are welcome (ticket or no ticket) to enjoy music in Lafayette Plaza (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Moraga Road) by Generations in Jazz, entertainment and photo booth by New You Dance Center, and fun activities by All Ages Recreation Downtown.
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JOINT Nonprofit Network: Lafayette and Concord Chambers
The Concord Nonprofit Network and Lafayette Chamber Nonprofit Network are sharing knowledge and building community together.
Wednesday, June 4, 8:30AM - 10AM
Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa, 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette.
We believe that nonprofit organizations play an essential role in building and sustaining thriving communities. Our mission is to foster collaboration, share expertise, and promote best practices among nonprofit professionals and volunteers. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a newcomer to the non-profit sector, we're here to provide you with the resources, connections, and support you need to make a positive impact in the world.
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Resource spotlight for the morning will be “Insights on Corporate Social Responsibility and the Resources available for Non-profits to best leverage" presented by Nichol Carranza, Marathon Renewable Fuels.
FREE and open to Lafayette Chamber AND Concord Chamber member nonprofit executives, staff, board, volunteers.
Please note that we are planning to meet outside in the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa Courtyard, please dress accordingly. The Courtyard is limited to 75 attendees. We encourage early registration to ensure your spot—this event is expected to fill quickly.
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Mix, Mingle & Market Yourself!
Join fellow Lafayette Chamber members for an evening of networking, community connection, and local business discovery. This is your chance to build visibility, make new contacts, and showcase your organization in a casual, social setting.
Lafayette Chamber Mixer & Vendor Fair
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM
REGISTER HERE
Hosted at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center, 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, CA.
Free for Chamber Members | $20 Guest Fee (Non-Members)
Featuring local wines by Deer Hill Vineyards and Los Arabis Vineyards at the no-host bar. Complementary non-alcoholic beverages from Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling.
Vendor Opportunities – Members Only:
• 20 Business Tables Available: $100 (ONLY 4 LEFT!)
• 5 Nonprofit Showcase Spots: $50 (CALL FOR WAITLIST!)
Vendor setup begins at 4:00 PM. Vendor-to-Vendor Preview: 4:30–5:00 PM
Events sponsored by Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County.
Space is limited—register early to reserve your spot! And don’t forget your business cards!
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Lafayette Art & Wine Festival Opportunities!
Lafayette Art & Wine Festival sponsorship and vendor opportunities are now available to Chamber Members!
Save the date for the 28th Annual Lafayette Art & Wine Festival, the 3rd weekend in September, September 20 & 21, 2025!
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Sponsors and Vendors Paid: April 28th - May 4th
BMW (Genesco) - Presenting Sponsor
Camp Bow Wow - Diablo Valley - Family Pet Vendor
Mechanics Bank - Presenting Sponsor
Sanctuaire MD - Commercial Vendor
Learn more and apply here: https://lafayettefestival.com/apply.
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Get Your Free Ad in the Grapevine Coupon Book
Good when you purchase an ad in the July/ August issue of The Grapevine, mailed to 81,000 homes in the same 4 great mailing zones!
Click here to learn more!
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Small Business Help Office Hours - Hosted by SCORE
SCORE has the largest network of free volunteer small business mentors in the nation. No matter what stage your business is at SCORE can be a valuable resource.
The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce has been partnering with SCORE for over 15 years. We welcome our chamber members and community members to schedule a complimentary meeting with a SCORE representative on Tuesdays between the hours of 1:30pm-4:00pm in our Chamber office at 251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150.
To schedule your appointment, please call the Lafayette Chamber at (925) 284-7404 or book your appointment online.
| | UPCOMING CHAMBER MEMBER EVENTS | | |
Lafayette Rotary Club's Great Musicians Festival at the Res
Don't miss out on a free event on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Lafayette Reservoir – Lafayette Rotary Club's Rotary Stage with music by Duke Ellington, performed by the Big Band of Rossmoor and local students. Enjoy a barbecue by the Lafayette Rotary Club and support local school music programs by purchasing raffle tickets.
The event aims to raise funds for music programs at Acalanes High School, Stanley Middle School, and two schools in Oakland. Daily parking is $7. Learn more here.
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Harper Greer Assistance League Diablo Valley Shopping Day
Join the Harper Greer Shopping Day to benefit the Assistance League Diablo Valley!
10% of ALL sales at Harper Greer on May 17 will be donated to the chapter!
Fashion Tips (11am) and How to Pack for a Trip (2pm) will be presented by HG staff!
Enjoy coffee and donut holes in the morning and “bubbles” and nibbles later in the day while you shop!
Saturday, May 17, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Harper Greer, 979 Moraga Rd, Lafayette
For More Info: www.harpergreer.com
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Spare the Air
To kick off the Spare the Air summer smog season BART and the region's transit operators have partnered with MTC and the Air District to declare
Tuesday, May 6, as All Aboard Bay Area Transit Day. Agencies will be handing out stickers and swag on May 6th and other fun engagement opportunities.
To clarify, transit will not be free on May 6th. This is a day to encourage people to try transit instead of driving.
As a reminder there are discount fares for eligible riders.
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Low-income adults earning 200% or less of the federal poverty level get 50% off through the regional Clipper START program. Clipper START program
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Youth 5-18 years old get 50% off with a Youth Clipper card. Youth Clipper card
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Seniors 65 and over get 62.5% off with a Senior Clipper card. (Search for the various locations where you can apply and immediately receive a discount card by selecting "Staffed Locations" under "Location Type" for Youth and Senior card services. They are also available by mail.
Please share with community members, staff, and business stakeholders.
Link to All Transit Day Press Release: https://allaboardbayarea.com/transit-day-2025
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Acalanes Senior Rally in the Park!
Acalanes is excited that the City approved blocking off Plaza Way for their new annual event: Senior Rally in the Park!
May 22, 3pm-4:30pm, Lafayette Plaza
Seniors will decorate their cars and then start the celebration with the annual Memory Walk through their respective Lafayette elementary school.
At 3pm, Seniors and families are invited to come together at Lafayette Plaza for live music (an awesome student band), Sideboard food and drink, games, and lots of Dons spirit. It will be a special way for them to celebrate their hometown community of Downtown Lafayette. They hope there will be plenty of cheers and car horns from passersby!
- They encourage families to stay downtown to shop and eat that evening with their seniors.
- Parking - Attendees can park in nearby parking lots (Plaza Center, La Fiesta Square) and in metered spots along Mt. Diablo Blvd and Golden Gate Way.
Thank you for your continued support of our Acalanes grads!
| | CAMPS, SCHOOLS & KIDS’ ACTIVITIES! | | Check out opportunities from these fellow Lafayette Chamber members. Have a program to add? Email us at info@lafayettechamber.org. | | |
BART MAINTENANCE WORK
BART will be performing rail maintenance work between Orinda and Lafayette Stations. The work each night is scheduled to start at 10pm and continue until BART service begins the next morning. To create safe clearance for our crews, BART will reduce service from two tracks to one while the work is taking place. Riders can anticipate delays of 15-20 minutes on work nights. BART does not anticipate noise levels to exceed the sound of the surrounding freeway.
The work entails destressing the rail to enable it to withstand swings between high and low temperatures. Temperature extremes can introduce extreme stress on the tracks. In cold weather, contraction of the rail can lead to fractures, while hot conditions can induce expansion and cause track buckling. Climate change is expected make these temperature swings more common and significant. Destressing the rail will reduce the risk of derailments and will ensure a more resilient transit system for BART riders.
Dates for this scheduled work include May 8 – 9, and May 22 – 23, 2025.
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City of Lafayette
You’re Invited!
The City of Lafayette warmly invites you to a special unveiling ceremony honoring the Saclan heritage and recognizing the deep, rich history of this land.
As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to cultural recognition, the Land Acknowledgment Task Force, working with artist Hannah Henry, has designed an educational sign that reflects the Saclan culture’s profound connection to the land. Two of these signs have been created—one will be installed at the Lafayette Community Center, and the other at the First Street Rain Garden.
We are excited to unveil this meaningful project and invite you to join us on:
May 12 at 5:00 PM
Corner of Golden Gate Way and First Street
First Street Rain Garden, Lafayette
Your presence will make this moment even more special as we come together to honor our shared history. Please feel free to share this invitation with others. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Give us Your Thoughts: Lafayette Downtown Parking Management Study
Save the date of Wednesday, May 21 to join us for an in-person workshop to provide input on the Lafayette Downtown Parking Management Study. After a series of workshops for downtown business owners in March, we are now hosting a workshop for visitors to our downtown. Visitors, business owners, employees, and residents of our downtown are encouraged to share parking experiences with us and provide feedback on how downtown’s parking supply may or may not meet demands for the wide range of land uses in our downtown.
Public Workshop:
In addition to the community workshop, an online survey will launch soon and that will provide an opportunity to provide input. It is expected that the online survey will launch by mid-May and will be open for 4 weeks.
We launched a Downtown Parking Management Study in Fall 2024 to identify parking management strategies that achieve an efficient balance between existing and future parking supply and demand, an expected increase in new housing, and increased multi-modal travel throughout Lafayette’s downtown area.
This study will update and supplement Lafayette’s 2016 Parking Management Strategy to address current and future parking needs in the Downtown area. It will include recommended parking management strategies to balance on-street and off-street public and private parking availability and uses to support the diverse range of downtown land uses, accommodate the expected rise in housing supply, and anticipate the potential future reduction in commuter parking at BART station lots. Additionally, it will address the community’s desire for expanding safe pedestrian and cycling networks in Downtown Lafayette and enhancing active transportation connections to other parts of the City. Read more about the Downtown Parking Management Study.
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Supervisor Candace Andersen Weekly Update
May 2, 2025 Weekly Update
➡ Library's Adult Literacy Program - Project Second Chance. Would you like to become a Project Second Chance Tutor?
➡ Digital Resource Highlight from the Library
➡ Volunteers Needed to Advocate for Children in Foster Care
➡ Know Your Rights Toolkit
➡ MAY 15th is Bike to Work/Wherever Day
➡ Get Ready for Summer - County Connection Youth Ride Free, Summer Pilot Program
➡ Draft Mental Health Services Act Three-Year Program and Expenditure Plan Public Comment Period Open!
➡ Special Olympics Volunteers Needed in Contra Costa County
➡ How Contra Costa County Public Works Can Help You!
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Highlight Your Chamber Membership!
Showcase your Lafayette Chamber membership on your website or marketing materials with the official Chamber logo! Simply email your request to info@lafayettechamber.org.
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