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Your Invitation to Small Business Saturday

Join Our Shop Small Adventure and Invest in the Spirit of Tillamook on November 29th.

With the Thanksgiving season quickly approaching, we find ourselves reflecting on what truly matters: community, connection, and gratitude. This time of year often encourages us to slow down, if only for a moment, and cherish the people and places that make Tillamook County so special.

Looking ahead to Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 29th, we think this is a great opportunity to turn our local appreciation into action and directly support the people and businesses that make Tillamook County tick.

We understand the allure of online convenience. Hopping onto your favorite shopping app, clicking a few times, and having a package delivered straight to your door, without ever having to leave your couch, can certainly have its perks. We’ve all done it. But we want to share the heart and soul behind our local small businesses and why it’s important to think local first.

A small, locally owned shop in Tillamook County is much more than just a place of commerce. It is someone’s dream, their passion, and their livelihood. Our family, friends, and neighbors pour their energy, time, and dedication into these endeavors every single day. There is so much effort and hope invested behind the scenes that we rarely ever see.

How often have we driven past a charming little shop off the highway, intending to stop but never quite making the time? This holiday season, we invite you to pause and explore. Take a moment to wander in and look around. You might just stumble upon a hidden treasure, a beautiful locket for your aunt, a nostalgic stuffed animal you know your granddaughter would adore, or a piece of local art that perfectly captures the beauty of our coast.

For us, shopping locally is about more than just knocking an item off a to-do list; it’s about slowing down to genuinely enjoy the sense of community and thoughtfulness that holiday gift giving embodies.

When you choose to spend your dollars right here in Tillamook County, you are directly investing in the community. Studies consistently show that for every dollar spent at a local small business, a significant portion (often up to 70% more) stays within the local community compared to shopping at national big box stores. Your purchase funds local services, our schools, and the dreams of our neighbors. It truly makes a difference.

We invite you to kick off the holiday spirit and join the fun with us on Small Business Saturday, November 29th! We have a wonderful day planned.

Start your day at the Tillamook Chamber HQ between 10 AM and 3 PM. Enjoy a complimentary hot cocoa donated by Tillamook Dutch Bros before setting off on your holiday shopping spree!

While you’re here, you can pick up a list of participating businesses that will be giving adorable ornaments to the first 12 shoppers to make a purchase, compliments of the Chamber. To keep the excitement going, bring your collected ornaments to the Chamber HQ by 5:00 PM on Monday, December 1st to be entered into a drawing for a fabulous gift basket, beautifully arranged by Ashley Christensen! Each ornament counts as one entry.

Plus, you have even more chances to win! Submit your receipts from any locally owned business for the Shop Small Sweepstakes; we are taking unlimited entries throughout the day on November 29th. This gives you a chance to win a gift basket worth $75 AND you’ll be entered into our Grand Prize drawing in early January for $1,000 in sweepstakes bucks! What a festive, memorable way to get your holiday shopping started!

This year, let’s choose to slow down, connect, and celebrate the incredible people and businesses that make Tillamook County our home. Your choice to shop local is more than just a purchase; it’s a profound investment in the vibrant heart of our community.

We can’t wait to see you on November 29th—let’s make this a Small Business Saturday to remember!

 

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Driving Downtown Vibrancy Through New Connections

Written by: Meg Angier, Membership and Community Partnerships Manager

As I approach my one-year anniversary with the Tillamook Chamber of Commerce, I’ve been reflecting on how much I’ve learned in such a short time. This past month, I had the opportunity to attend two incredible professional development experiences – the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce Conference and the Oregon Main Street Conference – on behalf of the Tillamook Chamber. Both events connected me with chamber professionals and community leaders from across the state, offering fresh perspectives on how towns similar in size to Tillamook approach business engagement, economic development, and community growth.

Throughout both conferences, I participated in sessions that focused on collaborative policymaking, strengthening local economies, and creative ways to engage businesses through events and storytelling. One session that particularly stood out to me was titled “Experiences Are the New Downtown Anchor.” It explored how communities across Oregon are partnering with local businesses to design events and activities that prioritize local participation and build a sense of place.

I found this especially exciting because we’re already seeing the benefits of that approach through our growing Sip + Shop event, held the second Friday of each month from 5–7 p.m. Events like this not only drive foot traffic downtown but also give businesses an opportunity to showcase their personality and connect directly with locals. The session also offered inspiration on how to creatively utilize vacant or underused spaces for community gatherings. This concept directly influenced how we’re activating Henson Plaza this year for our Downtown Trick or Treat event on Thursday, October 31, from 3–5 p.m. Chamber members without a downtown storefront will have the opportunity to hand out candy and engage with families right in the heart of downtown.

These conferences reminded me that community development is about connection—between businesses, residents, and shared spaces. I returned home with new tools, creative strategies, and a deeper understanding of how to strengthen partnerships throughout Tillamook. I’m excited to continue building on the strong foundation we’ve already laid and to bring new ideas forward that celebrate collaboration, local pride, and the unique spirit of our community. I am so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing to expand on my skills and professional development. If you have an idea or would like to talk about ways we can collaborate, please reach out to me at Meg@TillamookChamber.org or stop by our office on Main Street.

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Sip, Savor, Stroll, Through Downtown Tillamook’s Cork & Brew!

Get ready for a fun evening in the heart of Tillamook! The buzz is building, and we’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Cork & Brew event, taking over Downtown Tillamook on Friday, June 20th from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM!

Imagine this: a leisurely, self-guided walking tour, wandering through the charming streets of downtown. But Cork & Brew is more than just a taste of local flavors – it’s a unique opportunity to connect directly with the passionate individuals who make our downtown thrive. At each participating business, you’ll not only enjoy curated tastings of locally-crafted wine, perfectly brewed beer, and mouthwatering food creations, but you’ll also have the chance to meet the owners and staff of these local businesses who pour their hearts into their work every day.

This event is a fantastic way to learn the stories behind your favorite local spots, discover new businesses you might not have encountered yet, and build relationships within our vibrant community. 

We’ve already heard whispers of some truly amazing bites in store for you this year, crafted with care by our talented local restaurants and eateries. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and experience the culinary passion that defines our town.

And that’s not all! We’re excited to share that this year’s Cork & Brew will also feature a variety of delicious non-alcoholic options at participating locations. So, everyone can join in the fun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the tasty treats, and the invaluable opportunity to connect face-to-face with the dedicated business owners who contribute so much to our Tillamook community.

Cork & Brew is a celebration of our local economy and the people behind it. It’s a chance to come out, mingle with friends and neighbors, support our downtown businesses directly, and experience the genuine warmth and hospitality that makes Tillamook so special. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, this event offers a unique window into the heart of our community.

The countdown to a spectacular evening has begun! Secure your spot at Cork & Brew 2025 by grabbing your tickets now at www.corkandbrewtour.com. Trust us, the flavors, the atmosphere, and the community connection will make this an event you’ll be talking about long after it’s over – don’t miss out!

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New Apparel Designs Debut at Tillamook County Fair

It’s almost that time of year again! Tillamook County Fair time! The air is buzzing with anticipation as preparations unfold across the county. Community members are busy preparing with activities ranging from getting 4-H exhibits ready, printing and framing stunning photography displays to demolition derby cars getting a final overhaul for Saturday night’s grand event. It’s evident that this fair is an exciting highlight of the year for both adults and children!

Here at the Chamber, we’ve been crafting a new line of apparel that we’re confident will be a great addition to your wardrobe. These designs have been carefully selected to reflect the spirit of our community. Wearing Tillamook apparel isn’t just about staying cozy and looking good; it’s a symbol that showcases our shared values and commitment to making Tillamook a vibrant and thriving place to live, work, and visit.

Every year, families visiting Tillamook eagerly stock up on the latest apparel, turning it into an annual tradition or reunion of sorts. It’s always fun to see grandparents joyfully picking out items for all their grandkids.

All our clothing is printed locally by PSI Screen Printing & Embroidery Services, Signs & Vinyl Graphics, a proud member of our Chamber. By choosing to print locally, we’re not only ensuring the highest quality and craftsmanship but also supporting a local business that plays a vital role in our local economy.

The Tillamook County Fair runs from August 7-10 this year, and we couldn’t be more excited to share our new designs with you. Come see us in the main pavilion across from the Tillamook Ice Cream Booth. Whether you’re enjoying a thrilling ride, admiring the creativity on display, or cheering at the Pig-N- Ford races, make sure to stop by and grab your Tillamook apparel.

See you at the fair!

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Sip + Shop: A Growing Community Favorite

SIP + SHOP

Tillamook Chamber of Commerce’s Sip + Shop: A Growing Community Favorite

The Sip + Shop event in downtown Tillamook has become a beloved fixture, growing in popularity over the past year. Held on the second Friday of each month from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, it offers a fun evening of shopping, socializing, and sampling adult beverages, drawing both residents and visitors to downtown Tillamook.

This lively event owes much of its success to the enthusiastic participation of downtown Tillamook’s small business owners. Many of these dedicated proprietors extend their hours to welcome attendees, providing beverage samples—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—for guests to enjoy as they explore their stores. Their collaboration transforms an ordinary evening into a memorable community gathering.

Adding to the fun, Sip + Shop often features themed nights. Past themes have included Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day, complete with a treasure hunt for a “Pot o’ Gold,” where participants could win exciting prizes.

The adventure begins at the Chamber HQ, where attendees receive a complimentary, reusable wine glass and their first sip of the evening. They’re also given a list of participating businesses offering additional samples as they browse. Regular attendees who bring back their glasses the following month are entered into a drawing for a chance to win a prize, adding an extra incentive for return visits.

Jennifer Robitsch, owner of Madeline’s in downtown Tillamook, has been involved with Sip + Shop since its inception. “Sip + Shop seems to be turning into a fun ladies’ night out, and that makes it a lot of fun!” Jennifer shared. “It’s a great way to get out and visit the local businesses in the evening. It’s always a fun and festive event!”

As Sip + Shop continues to expand, it’s heartening to see how it fosters a sense of community while supporting the local economy. The event not only brings people together but also encourages residents and visitors to explore and appreciate the unique offerings of Tillamook’s small businesses.

Whether you’re looking to discover new treasures while shopping locally, enjoy a casual evening out, or simply mingle with fellow community members, Sip + Shop offers something for everyone. Although there will be no Sip + Shop in August so that everyone can enjoy the Tillamook County Fair, but Sip + Shop will be back in full swing on September 13th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.

For more information, follow us, Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce, on social media for regular updates on upcoming Sip + Shop events and themes, or visit the community calendar Here