Month: March 2025

MARTINFest June 28, 2025

Samantha Routheau

15th Annual MARTINFest: A Celebration of Nature and Community

Date: June 28, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: City Park, Oconto (5182 County Highway N, Oconto, WI 54153)
Contact: 920-889-0060

Oconto’s beloved MARTINFest returns for its 15th year, offering a day of family-friendly fun and an up-close look at the natural beauty of the area. The festival, hosted at City Park along the Bay of Green Bay, promises free activities and entertainment for all ages.

A Nature Lover’s Dream
Attendees can explore a wide array of booths and exhibits, including:

  • Wisconsin Purple Martin Association: Learn about bird banding, enjoy presentations, and participate in a silent auction.
  • Bird City Oconto: Discover bird conservation information and grab children’s activity bags.
  • Bluebird Restoration Association: Attend a bluebird house presentation and purchase one to support the cause.
  • Earthaven Museum: Identify fossils and rocks with expert guidance.
  • Brown County Beekeepers: Enjoy honey sales and learn about beekeeping.

Interactive Fun for All Ages
Kids will love the activities hosted by Farnsworth Public Library, including a storybook walk and engaging crafts. Live animal presentations will be a highlight, with Raptor Education (12 PM – 3 PM) and Archie’s Angels Reptile Education (10 AM – 4 PM) captivating audiences throughout the day.

Food and More
Food will be available for purchase from the Oconto Park & Recreation Department, and visitors can relax in the park’s beautiful setting, complete with a playground, beach, and pavilions.

Community Voices
Samantha Routheau, President of the Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed her excitement for the event, stating:
“MartinFest is a shining example of what makes Oconto special—a celebration of nature, community, and the joy of coming together. This event truly offers something for everyone, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors from near and far.”

Cordulla VanDenHeuvel , the event organizer, added:
“This year’s MARTINFest marks a significant milestone as we celebrate its 15th anniversary. The dedication of our volunteers and the enthusiasm of our attendees have made this event a beloved tradition. We’re excited to showcase so many engaging activities and exhibits that highlight the beauty and biodiversity of our region.”

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, MARTINFest is the place to be. Mark your calendars for June 28 and join in the celebration!

Oconto & Peshtigo Chamber Golf Outing

Samantha Routheau

Get ready to hit the greens for a great cause and even better connections.

The Oconto Area and Peshtigo Area Chambers of Commerce invite you to the 2025 Golf Outing: Networking on the Greens happening Monday, July 21 at Irish Greens Golf Club & Restaurant.

  • Check-in: 1:00–1:45 PM
  • Shotgun Start: 2:00 PM | 9-hole Scramble
  • Cost: $240 per team of 4 or $60 per golfer
  • Includes 9 holes of golf, cart, and a Tips & Fixin’s dinner after golf

There will be hole prizes, bucket raffles, a 50/50 raffle, and more.
Bring a non-perishable food item to earn extra raffle tickets—donations will benefit Bread by the Bay Food Pantry in Oconto.

Registration deadline: July 16
Mail completed forms and payment to:
Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 174, Oconto, WI 54153

Interested in sponsoring a hole or donating an item for the raffle? Contact Matt Heling at matt.heling@edwardjones.com or connect with any chamber member.

Spend the afternoon golfing, networking, and supporting the community.

Click here for registration form!

Dirt City Off-Road Nationals – July 26-27, 2025

Samantha Routheau

Dirt City Motorplex in Lena, WI, has become a hallmark of off-road racing.  The one-mile-long short-course layout consistently brings out some of the closest wheel-to-wheel competition on the AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Tour. Since its inception in 2019 it has rapidly gained popularity among fans and has become an integral part of the community.

The town of Lena welcomes racers and their vehicles to Thunder on Main, a “meet and greet” right on Main Street Friday night. The night is filled with hundreds of racers and thousands of fans coming together for an unforgettable experience of autographs, photos, and fun.

With a commitment to providing exceptional door to door racing, Dirt City continues to be a cornerstone of the off-road community. 

Oconto Fly-In September 20, 2025

Samantha Routheau

Join us for a high-flying adventure at the Oconto Fly-In on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the J. Douglas Bake Municipal Airport in Oconto, WI! This exciting annual event welcomes aviation enthusiasts, families, and the community for a day of aircraft displays, scenic flights, and pilot meet-and-greets.

Enjoy a delicious food vendor, and kids’ activities while marveling at a variety of vintage, experimental, and modern aircraft. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just love watching planes take off, the Oconto Fly-In is a must-attend event!

Bring the whole family and experience the thrill of aviation! ✈️

Harvest Fest September 27, 2025

Samantha Routheau

Join us for Harvest Fest on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10 AM – 3 PM on Main Street! This family-friendly fall celebration will bring our downtown to life with a full day of fun and festivities.

What to Expect:

-Over 150 craft and vendor booths featuring handmade goods, seasonal décor, and local products.
-Car show
-Live music throughout the day.
-Delicious food trucks and local eateries to satisfy your cravings.
-Kids’ activities, including face painting, plinko, and more!
-Fall photo ops to capture your perfect autumn memories.

Bring your family and friends to celebrate the season, support local businesses, and enjoy the vibrant community spirit of Oconto! Mark your calendars, and we can’t wait to see you there! 🍂

📍 Location: Main Street, Oconto, WI
⏰ Time: 10 AM – 3 PM

📞 For more info, contact the Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce at ocontoareachamberofcommerce@gmail.com.

Click here for vendor application!

Santa’s Visit – December 13, 2025

Samantha Routheau

Santa’s Visit! 🎅

The Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to partner with The Shop on Main for a festive day with Santa on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 821 Main Street, Oconto! The Green Bay Santa Claus himself will be here, ready for photos and holiday cheer.

What’s in Store:

-Snap a photo with Santa 🎅 (free)

-Kid’s crafts available for free

-Parents can enjoy a cold brew or try a cozy holiday coffee special from The Shop on Main.

More information soon!

Blackbird Boutique Takes Flight in Oconto

Samantha Routheau

A new shopping experience is spreading its wings in downtown Oconto, 1102 Main Street, as Blackbird Boutique is officially opening its doors on March 14, 2025! Owned by Amanda Derry, this charming boutique is more than just a place to shop—it’s a labor of love, community, and giving back.

A Dream Turned Reality

Amanda’s journey to boutique ownership began nearly a decade ago when Lisa, the former boutique owner, opened the shop. “When Lisa told me she was opening this store, I instantly told her to let me know if she ever needed help. I loved every moment of it—the people, the products, the conversations. It was never a ‘job’ to me, and it became a dream to one day own my own,” Amanda shares. “I just never thought it would be so soon!”

That dream has now come to life as Blackbird Boutique, a name rich in personal meaning. “My mom passed away from cancer on Mother’s Day in 2012. She loved sitting outside watching the birds, especially the crows, which she called ‘her boys.’ Since she can’t physically be here to support me, she’s here in my name and my product. My logo also features four birds, representing my four children, who have always been my biggest supporters.”

Unique Finds With a Purpose

Blackbird Boutique offers a thoughtfully curated mix of modern clothing, accessories, and unique gift items, many of which support charitable causes. “I’m keeping some of Lisa’s original styles while adding new items, including fun socks that support nonprofits like St. Jude’s, clean water initiatives, and children’s literacy programs,” Amanda explains. “Some of the coffee mugs also support cancer research, which is something close to my heart.”

Amanda is also committed to listening to her customers. “My daughter is quick to tell me what’s in style and what’s not,” she laughs. “I’ll also be taking customer feedback on new items they’d like to see in the store.”

A Boutique With Heart

The boutique’s mission extends beyond fashion—it’s about creating a joyful and welcoming space. “When I see people happy or excited, I get happy and excited for them, no matter how big or small the reason,” Amanda says.

Her long-term vision includes online ordering and curated gift baskets for special occasions. “I want to offer different pricing options for unique gifts, so there’s something for everyone.”

Chamber Support & Community Excitement

The Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to welcome Blackbird Boutique to the local business community. Chamber President Samantha Routheau shared her enthusiasm:

“Oconto is lucky to have passionate entrepreneurs like Amanda, who bring fresh energy to our downtown. Blackbird Boutique isn’t just another store—it’s a reflection of her heart, her journey, and her desire to give back. We encourage everyone to stop by and experience it for themselves!”

Visit Blackbird Boutique

Stop by and explore this new shopping gem starting March 14, 2025, where every purchase tells a story and supports a greater cause. Whether you’re looking for stylish apparel, a meaningful gift, or just a warm and welcoming place to browse, Blackbird Boutique is ready to welcome you with open arms.