The Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches is gearing up for a major milestone: its 100th anniversary next year. Founded in 1926, the Chamber will mark a century of business leadership, community engagement, and economic development with a full slate of events and promotions beginning this fall.
“We’re not just looking back—we’re moving forward with pride and purpose,” said Art Gerhauser, past president and Centennial Committee chair. “Our theme is ‘100 Years of Providing the Needs of Our Community,’ and we’re organizing programs that reflect that commitment across generations.”
The celebration kicks off in Fall 2025 with signature events such as the Fall Festival, March of the Goblins, and the annual Tree Lighting, all infused with centennial spirit and enhanced promotions. The Chamber will also launch a 2026 calendar, featuring member advertising and photos from local artists—possibly as a collector’s item for purchase—and a limited-edition Christmas ornament showcasing the centennial sailboat logo.
“There’s real excitement in the air,” said Jackie Osborn of Jimmy Osborne Music, the current president of the Moriches Chamber. “You’ll see the ‘100 Years’ branding in everything we do—from the Chamber’s advertising to our 2026 networking events and community outreach. This is a moment to bring our entire business community together.”
The Chamber plans to spotlight area milestones, partnering with other organizations also celebrating landmark anniversaries. Special events will include a Founders Day Celebration, a “Person of the Year” party, a Chamber Monopoly Game, and even a Moriches Centennial Ale brewed by Moriches Field Brewing Co.
The Chamber is also investing in lasting legacy projects, such as repainting the Canal Street mural, awarding scholarship bonuses, and exploring a Centennial Greenway at the site of the former Jonesy’s Hardware Store—connecting Main Street to Neville Park with a pedestrian walkway.
Other potential centennial ideas include community welcome signage, new parking initiatives, a Moriches Chowder Contest, and a community Fishing Tournament.
But before the centennial year begins in earnest, summer will be ringing with music. “We’re thrilled to once again host our 2025 Summer Concert Series, which will feature nine amazing shows at Clayton Huey Elementary School and Sailor & Soldiers Memorial Park,” Osborne said. “These events are a local tradition, and we’re inviting area businesses to be a part of it.”
Concerts will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on select Saturdays in July and August. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy music under the stars. Sponsorships are now open to local businesses and Chamber members.
“It’s a great way to show community support and get in front of hundreds of residents,” Osborn noted. “The concert series is just one example of how we bring people together—and we hope to carry that same energy into our centennial year.”
For sponsorship details or to get involved in the Chamber’s 100-year celebration, visit moricheschamber.org. “This is going to be the biggest year yet for the Moriches,” said Gerhauser. “We’re celebrating our past—and building something lasting for the future.”