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Nominations for the 2025 Annual Spotlight Soirée
are now open!
A Night to Celebrate Small Business & Strengthen Our Community
This year’s Annual Spotlight Soirée isn’t just about honoring the best of Oak Park and River Forest—it’s also a moment to highlight the exciting new ways we’re working to support local businesses through the Chamber’s evolving programs, including the EDGE Foundation, our new 501(c)(3) partner organization. On Saturday, November 15th at the Boulevard Arcade in Oak Park, we’ll gather 150+ community leaders, entrepreneurs, and neighbors for a night that’s part awards ceremony, part party, and all heart. We’ll celebrate the small businesses and organizations whose spirit, creativity, and dedication keep our community thriving—while also sharing how initiatives like EDGE will help that momentum grow.
Why This Matters
By honoring our local legends, rising stars, and everyday business heroes, we’re also shining a light on the bigger picture: a vibrant, inclusive, and connected local economy. The Spotlight Soirée is one more way we come together to celebrate, elevate, and champion the businesses that make Oak Park and River Forest extraordinary.Award Categories
Community Character
This award recognizes a business or organization that truly embodies the unique, creative, and supportive spirit of our community. They are not only successful but also fun, smart, and one-of-a-kind. Nominate the business that epitomizes who we are.
Customer Experience
Which business makes you feel like the most important customer in the world? This award honors those who deliver an unforgettable, over-the-top customer experience consistently. It's more than just great service – it's an experience that keeps you coming back and telling your friends.
Excellent Eats
This is for the local eatery that you can't wait to show off to out-of-town visitors. The perfect combination of delectable food, excellent service, and an inviting environment. Celebrate the pinnacle of local dining excellence with this award.
Local Legend
This heritage award celebrates a business that has become a cornerstone of our community, capturing the heart and staying power through generations. It's a Lifetime Achievement Award for a local business that is deeply intertwined with our community's identity.
New & Notable
For businesses that have opened their doors between 2020 and May 2025 and have quickly become beloved fixtures in our neighborhood. This award recognizes new businesses that fill a gap we didn't know existed, bringing fresh products, services, and experiences that feel like they've always been a part of our community.
Small Business Superhero
This award is for the individual or small business that has truly saved your day. Whether it was an emergency service, a last-minute need, or exceptional expertise, this superhero has made a significant impact on your life. Celebrate the small business that went above and beyond to make your week.
CLICK HERE FOR SPOTLIGHT SOIREE TICKETS
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2025 SPOTLIGHT AWARDS + SOIREE
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Annual Spotlight Soirée, where we honor the outstanding businesses and organizations that make our community shine. This year's event will be held on November 15th at the Boulevard Arcade in Oak Park. Let's come together to celebrate the spirit, creativity, and dedication that define our vibrant community.
Event Details:
Date: November 15th, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Cocktails & Happy Hour: 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Award Presentation: 7:30 - 8:30 PM
Celebration: 8:30 - 10:00 PM
Venue: The Boulevard Arcade (1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302)What to Expect?
Magical Reception: Begin your evening with a glamorous reception, complete with photo opportunities open bar, and much more!
Award Ceremony: Celebrate the winners across various categories, recognizing their exceptional work and commitment to making a difference.
Live Performances: Enjoy captivating a performance by local talents, adding a touch of entertainment to the evening.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, community influencers, and fellow attendees in a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Interested in sponsoring the 2025 Spotlight Awards? We offer a range of sponsorship packages to suit your organization's needs and enhance your visibility within the community. CLICK HERE to view sponsorship information. For more information, please email specialevents@oprfchamber.org
Be a part of this incredible evening as we honor the best in our business community. Dress to impress and prepare for an unforgettable night of celebration, inspiration, and connection.
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