GREAT BEND, Kan. — The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is inviting residents, members, newcomers, and local businesses to join a special week of holiday hospitality with Cups of Cheers: Elevating Great Bend, One Warm Welcome at a Time. In the spirit of the season, the Chamber wishes to bring people together over a cup of coffee.
As part of the Chamber’s ElevateGBK: Beyond Today strategic vision, Cups of Cheers focuses on strengthening morale, building meaningful relationships, and highlighting the power of simple moments shared together. The Chamber hopes this effort will offer a positive and uplifting close to the year and reinforce the message that Great Bend’s greatest strength is its people.
EVENT 1: Coffee on Us
Friday, December 19 | 7:00–10:00 AM
Location: Perks Coffee Shop, 1216 Main St. Downtown Great Bend
The final Friday before Christmas kicks off with a free cup of coffee and cookie courtesy of the Chamber. Community members are invited to stop by, meet others, and enjoy a warm moment of connection before the holiday weekend. The event includes a special welcome for individuals and families who are new to Great Bend. New residents will receive a relocation packet and have the opportunity to connect with Chamber staff and friendly local faces eager to help them feel at home.
“There’s something powerful about neighbors gathering over a cup of coffee,” said Chamber President & CEO Megan Barfield. “We want people to feel valued, welcomed, and reminded that Great Bend is a community that cares.”
EVENT 2: Chamber Holiday Warm-Up
Monday & Tuesday, December 22–23 | 9:00AM–3:00 PM
Location: Great Bend Chamber Office, 1125 Williams St.
The holiday spirit continues the following Monday and Tuesday at the Chamber office with coffee, hot cocoa, cookies, and open doors. Chamber Members and anyone who missed Friday’s event can drop in for a relaxed, festive atmosphere and enjoy a moment of holiday calm amid the busy season.
“These small acts of hospitality are part of our commitment to building a stronger, more connected Great Bend,” Barfield said. “Elevating our community starts with elevating the way we treat one another and sometimes, that’s as simple as sharing a warm drink and a smile.”
A Season for Community & Connection
The Chamber created Cups of Cheer to nurture goodwill, support local businesses, and encourage a more connected and positive community. By fostering relationships and extending intentional hospitality, especially toward new residents, the Chamber hopes to contribute to a renewed sense of pride and togetherness across the community.
“All year long, we talk about elevating Great Bend ‘beyond today,’” Barfield added. “This is one small way to put that promise into action.”
For more information, contact the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce at 620-792-2401, visit greatbend.org, or follow the Chamber on social media for updates.
