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Westfield Chamber Expands Beyond Holiday Lighting Celebration

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. expands-beyond-holiday-lighting-celebration.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 17:26 GMT by MassLive
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

WESTFIELD, NJ - February 12th, 2026 - Following the resounding success of its annual holiday lighting celebration on December 12th, 2025, the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce is not resting on its laurels. The Chamber is actively building upon the momentum generated by the festive event, signaling a broader strategy to further cultivate a thriving local economy and an even stronger sense of community in Westfield. While the holiday lighting remains a cornerstone, the organization is now focusing on expanding its year-round programming, attracting new businesses, and addressing evolving community needs.

The December event, held in front of Westfield Town Hall, drew record crowds, exceeding attendance expectations from previous years. The vibrant atmosphere, fueled by local vendors, musical performances from the Westfield High School Choir and Harmony Hill School Chorus, and the collective joy of residents, underscored the town's strong community spirit. Mayor Tom Smith aptly described it as a showcase of Westfield's unique character, highlighting the event's importance in bringing people together during the holiday season.

However, the Chamber's ambitions extend far beyond a single annual event. Jenifer Jones, President of the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes a commitment to year-round support for local businesses. "The holiday celebration is a wonderful kickoff," she explained in a recent interview, "but our real work happens every day, helping our members navigate the challenges of a competitive market and capitalize on opportunities for growth."

This dedication is manifesting in several new initiatives. The Chamber recently launched a mentorship program pairing established business owners with entrepreneurs starting new ventures in Westfield. The program provides guidance on everything from business planning and marketing to financial management and navigating local regulations. Initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with several mentees reporting significant progress in launching their businesses.

Furthermore, the Chamber is actively working to attract new businesses to Westfield, particularly in sectors identified as underserved within the community. A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Chamber revealed a growing demand for specialized retail, unique dining experiences, and professional services. The Chamber is leveraging these findings to target potential businesses in neighboring states and beyond, highlighting Westfield's attractive demographics, strong school system, and convenient location. They are also collaborating with the town planning board to streamline the permitting process for new businesses, making Westfield an even more appealing destination for investment.

Beyond economic development, the Chamber is also doubling down on its commitment to community engagement. Plans are underway for a series of monthly "Westfield Works" workshops, focusing on topics of interest to residents, such as home maintenance, financial literacy, and digital skills. The Chamber is also partnering with local non-profit organizations to raise awareness about important social issues and facilitate volunteer opportunities. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the Chamber is not just a voice for business, but a true advocate for the entire community.

The success of the holiday lighting celebration served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community connection. The Chamber recognizes this, and is actively exploring ways to replicate that sense of togetherness throughout the year. Future events in the planning stages include a spring street fair, a summer concert series, and a fall harvest festival. These events are designed to be family-friendly, inclusive, and showcase the best of Westfield's local talent and businesses.

"We want Westfield to be known not just as a great place to live, but as a great place to do business and a great place to be a part of something special," Jones concluded. The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce is clearly demonstrating that vision, transforming from a traditional business advocacy group into a dynamic force for community building and economic vitality.