When thinking about the Christmas holiday, many of us may imagine hot chocolate and the picture of family and loved ones gathered around the fire place laughing and sharing memories. Although we may not have the cold weather right now, it’s Christmas in July for the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce as over the last week we have begun preparing for the wide variety of family-friendly events taking place this holiday season. There’s the Chamber’s Coat Closet, Christmas in the City, and the Christmas in Clinton Parade, all high on our list of planning priorities right now.

This year will be the third year of the Chamber’s signature community event, the Coat Closet. Last year, with the constant support of the community, sponsorships, and community partners, together we were able to distribute over 1,000 coats across Sampson and surrounding counties to those in need. With this year being the third Coat Closet project, our goal is to continue to grow by collecting and distributing more coats to support those winter needs throughout Sampson and surrounding counties. In order for the project to continue to grow, the Chamber needs the continued community support and partnerships we’ve had in the past.

This year’s Coat Closet kickoff event will be Nov. 1, from noon until 6 p.m., featuring a wide variety of local entertainment. The kickoff event will be a fun day of local entertainment and the Chamber’s initial act in order to begin collecting new and gently used coats. For the month of November, we will focus on coat collection while distribution will take place in December. Please keep the Coat Closet and the kickoff event in mind as you have coats that you can donate. Together, we can ensure this signature community event continues to grow in order to continue to be helpful to Sampson County residents in need.

As Christmas in July continues, save the date for the second annual Christmas in the City. Clinton Main Street Program, City of Clinton, Sampson County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Sampson County History Museum, Sampson Arts Council, Sampson Community Theater, and the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce are partnering to present the event on Thursday, Nov. 29. The inaugural event last year received rave reviews, and over 400 guests enjoyed the event’s activities, which included museum tours, carriage and hay rides, gingerbread decorating activity, silent auctions, a reception, and more. The proceeds of this event will support the Sampson County History Museum and the Sampson Community Theatre.

What would Christmas (in July) be without the Christmas in Clinton Parade? What an awesome family event for all on Dec. 8. Save the date for antique cars, fire trucks, large floats, Santa Clause, and more. It is never too early to begin thinking about your Christmas parade entry. Give us a call today at the Chamber office for more details and information. 592.6177.

Enjoy Christmas in July as we all are very excited about the remainder of 2012 as well as the future of each business/organization within Sampson County. There are exciting opportunities and growth to come so we encourage each of our members to continue to actively support the Chamber and remember, let the Chamber work for you!