Interim Director’s & President’s Update – October 2025
October 7, 2025
Crisp mornings, colorful foliage, and a packed calendar — fall has officially arrived on Greater Cape Ann. Before diving into a busy October, we want to take a moment to reflect on an eventful September and the many ways our community came together to celebrate the season and support local business.
We began the month with one of our most anticipated annual events, the Blackburn Brew Fest at Stage Fort Park. Now in its third year, the Brew Fest has quickly become a fall favorite, drawing visitors from near and far to enjoy more than twenty regional breweries, delicious food trucks, lawn games, and great live music—all set against the beautiful backdrop of Gloucester Harbor. It was another outstanding day of community spirit and local flavor, and we’re so grateful to our sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and attendees who made it possible.
Later in the month, members gathered for a truly memorable Business After Hours aboard the Schooner Adventure. With clear skies, calm waters, and a stunning sunset over the harbor, it was an evening that perfectly captured the beauty and camaraderie of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Schooner Adventure team for generously hosting us and sharing their vessel’s rich history and mission to preserve Gloucester’s maritime heritage.
We closed out September with a sold-out $20K Game Night at The Cut in Gloucester. The energy in the room was electric as finalists awaited the drawing for our grand prize of $10,000, which went home with a local business owner. This annual fundraiser is one of our most enjoyable events, and it plays an important role in supporting the Chamber’s ongoing programs and community initiatives. A big thank you goes out to everyone who purchased a ticket, volunteered, or helped make the evening a success.
October brings another full schedule of opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate across the region. On Wednesday, October 15, we’ll gather for a Business After Hours at Mariposa and Friends in downtown Manchester, complete with a ribbon cutting to officially welcome this charming new retail space to the community. It will be a wonderful opportunity to explore the shop and connect with fellow members in a relaxed and friendly setting.
The following week, we’ll host an important educational session on Tuesday, October 21, with Marsh McLennan Agency presenting a seminar on health insurance for small businesses. This informative program will explore plan options, tax-favored benefits, and practical ways for employers to enhance coverage for their teams. The next morning, on Wednesday, October 22, we’ll partner with MassHire for an in-person Coffee & Connections networking event—an opportunity for local employers, job seekers, and community partners to come together for meaningful conversation over coffee.
The fall festival season also kicks into full swing this month. Rockport HarvestFest returns on Saturday, October 18, filling the heart of downtown Rockport with music, local food, artisan vendors, and the always-popular Apple Pie Bake-Off. One week later, on Saturday, October 25, the 40th Annual Essex ClamFest takes over Shepard Memorial Park, celebrating four decades of this beloved tradition. From the famous Chowder Competition to the craft fair and family-friendly activities, it’s a day that truly captures the flavor and spirit of Essex.
We’ll close out the month with the Businesswomen’s Luncheon at the Beauport Hotel on Wednesday, October 29. This inspiring annual gathering will feature a dynamic panel of trailblazing female leaders and entrepreneurs, offering stories, insights, and motivation for women in business across Greater Cape Ann. It’s always one of the most uplifting and energizing events of the year.
As we move deeper into the season, we are reminded once again of how fortunate we are to live and work in such a vibrant, collaborative, and supportive community. Thank you to everyone who continues to attend, volunteer, and champion our events and programs. Your involvement helps keep our region strong and connected, season after season.
Respectfully,
Jim Brown, President, GCACC Board of Directors
Sam Bevins, Interim Director, Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce