By Kate Bartlett
The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce (GOACC) recently released the 2026 Events Schedule with many returning favorites along with a few new activities.
Christine Pecherzewski, Director of Events & Operations is already looking ahead with excitement to the Chamber’s 2026 Signature Events season. “Each year, our events bring the business community together in meaningful, high-energy ways, celebrating local success, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities to connect. We can’t wait to build on that momentum in 2026 and make it our most impactful season yet.”
- Tier Restaurant Week, Part I
March 13-21
Coming up soon March 13-21 is the Southern Tier Restaurant Week (Part 1, with Part 2 August 7-15). This event showcases over 25 local restaurants with exclusive, discounted, or specially created menu items, encouraging residents to explore local dining. The GOACC provides a digital and printed guidebook highlighting participating restaurants and encourages guests to post photos on social media using the hashtag #GOACCRestaurantWeek for a chance to win a gift certificate.
Community Wide Garage Sales
May 8-9
Community Wide Garage Sales will take place May 8-9 featuring approximately 150 residential sales across Olean, Allegany, Portville, and Hinsdale. This massive, organized event is a favorite for treasure hunters with hundreds of sellers offering various household items, antiques, clothing, furniture and more. Residents can register their sales with the GOACC for a small fee, which includes their sale location on the official, widely distributed listing.
- Tier Corporate Challenge
June 25
The 16th annual Southern Tier Corporate Challenge 5K run/2-mile walk will take place on June 25 at the JCC Olean Campus promoting wellness and team building. The event attracts over 1,000 participants and concludes with “Olean’s Largest Office Party” featuring food, drinks, and awards. The professionally timed run and non-timed walk are open to corporate teams, community teams, individuals, and the general public with trophies and recognition for top finishers, fastest CEO, and team spirit. The after-party features food trucks, and beverages in a fun and festive atmosphere.
Paradise in the Park
July 16
GOACC “Paradise” in the Park on July 16 (formerly known as the Chamber Clambake) will take place in Lincoln Park in the heart of Olean to kick off the summer season. This event gathers GOACC members, employees, and the public for an afternoon of food, music, and prizes in celebration of the summer season. The event was renamed from “Chamber Clambake” to “Paradise in the Park” to better reflect a broader, more diverse menu, rather than focusing solely on seafood. The event typically includes catered food (such as clam dishes, chicken, salads, and more), music, 50/50 drawings, and basket raffle.
StrOlean, August 15
StrOlean 2026 will take place on August 15 in Downtown Olean featuring over 70 local vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s area and beverage tent. This major annual, pedestrian-only street festival is designed to promote the “Strolling Thru Olean” concept, encouraging walking, shopping, and dining at local businesses in the downtown area.
GOACC Annual Dinner, Oct. 8
The 116th annual GOACC Annual Dinner will take place on October 8, location to be announced. This premier networking and awards event celebrating local business accomplishments, featuring the presentation of honors like the L.O.U.I.E. Award, Enterprising Business Award, and Presidential Award.
Santa Claus Lane Parade, Nov. 27
Santa Claus Lane Parade on will kick off the holiday season on November 27 down North Union Street. This annual holiday tradition is held on the Friday after Thanksgiving featuring over 50-60+ illuminated floats, marching bands, and community groups, starting at 6:30 PM, where Santa and Mrs. Claus light up North Union Street.
Jingle Bell Jubilee, Dec. 12
The annual Jingle Bell Jubilee will take place on December 12 at War Vets Park with over 30 local craft vendors, food trucks, live holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides, cookie decorating, and visits with Santa Claus. This festive holiday market is a favorite community celebration bringing locals and visitors together for the holiday season.
For more information visit oleanny.com/events and follow on social media for updates.