Week of August 3rd, 2026

                                                ... Making It All Happen

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Director's Message - WOW... It's August! 

WOW

That one little word seems to sum up exactly how I'm feeling this week.

WOW... how can it already be August?

WOW... how is summer already beginning to wind down?

WOW... where has 2026 gone?

WOW... there is still so much to accomplish before the year is over!

WOW... to every volunteer, business, sponsor, committee member, and community supporter who continues to show up and make Story City such an incredible place.

WOW... to the thousands of visitors who have taken a ride on our beloved Story City Antique Carousel this season, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And if I'm being honest...

WOW... I think I might be just a little tired. 😊

But it's the best kind of tired.  The kind that comes from serving a community you love.

As we turn the calendar to August, there is still so much ahead. Community celebrations, fundraisers, Ribbon Cuttings, the Duck Race, Art in the Park, Carousel Sponsor Nights, and so many opportunities to connect with one another. The summer may be moving quickly, but the excitement certainly isn't slowing down.

So, this week, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the little "WOW" moments around you. Attend an event. Support a local business. Thank a volunteer. Invite someone to get involved. Every act of kindness and every connection help make Story City stronger.

Thank you for continuing to make me say "WOW" every single day.
It is truly an honor to serve this amazing community.

Shanon McKinley
Executive Director
Story City Chamber & Main Street

This week...

Support our Downtown Wireless Sound System Project
by entering our Story City Cornhole Board Raffle!

This one-of-a-kind custom Story City cornhole board set could be yours, and every raffle ticket purchased brings us one step closer to installing a wireless sound system throughout the 500 and 600 blocks of Broad Street.
The new system will enhance community events, parades, festivals, announcements, and downtown gatherings for years to come.

🎟️ Raffle tickets are available now at the Story City Greater Chamber Connection office (524 Broad St).

Thank you for helping us invest in the future of downtown Story City. Good Luck!

 

Art in the Park Returns September 20 – A Celebration of Creativity & Community!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, and join us in beautiful Story City for Art in the Park, a day filled with creativity, entertainment, and fun for the whole family!

Stroll through the park as talented artists and makers showcase their handcrafted creations, enjoy live music throughout the day, grab a delicious bite from local food vendors, and take a ride on the historic Story City Antique Carousel. With interactive activities, unique shopping, children's experiences, and so much more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Calling All Artists!
We're still accepting artist registrations and would love to welcome even more creative talent to this year's event. Whether you create paintings, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, fiber arts, photography, or other handmade works, we'd love to have you join us.

Artist Registration:
https://www.storycitygcc.org/2026/09/20/315183/art-in-the-park/

Calling Young Creators!
Our Mini Makers Market is the perfect opportunity for young entrepreneurs and artists to showcase their talents, build confidence, and experience selling their handmade creations.

Mini Makers Registration:
https://forms.gle/daDEi567YV4fDTJS9

Bring your family, invite your friends, and spend the day celebrating art, community, and small businesses in Story City. From incredible artwork and delicious food to live music, carousel rides, and unforgettable memories, Art in the Park is an event you won't want to miss!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

🍦 You're Invited to Our Annual Ice Cream Social! 🍦

Join us for an afternoon of history, ice cream, and hands-on fun!

The Story City Historical Society invites you to our 
Annual Ice Cream Social on Sunday, August 9, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. 
at the Bartlett & Carriage House Museums

Enjoy a sweet treat while visiting with fellow members and friends. This year, you'll also have the opportunity to make your own hand-dipped candle using traditional methods. The candles we create will help furnish our restored 1859 log cabin, and you'll even get to take one home as a keepsake!

We hope you'll join us for this fun summer tradition.
Bring a friend, and we'll see you on August 9!

Upcoming Events...
For more information on auditions, please check out JudgeStoryTroupe.org!

Get Ready... The Ducks Are Here!

Adopt your lucky duck online and be part of the excitement:  www.storycitygcc.org/2026/08/19/315151/annual-duck-race-with-bbq/
 

1 Duck – $5
6 Quack Pack – $20

Whether you're hoping for bragging rights, supporting your community, or simply joining in the fun, every duck helps make this beloved event possible.

Making it Happen...
Story City Greater Chamber Connection Story City Greater Chamber Connection
Story City  Antique Carousel Story City Antique Carousel
Story City Greater Chamber Connection Website Story City Greater Chamber Connection Website
Story City Greater Chamber Connection
524 Broad Street / PO Box 39
Story City, Iowa 50248
515-733-4214


Shanon McKinley, Executive Director
director@storycitygcc.com