Chamber celebrates new headquarters

By Kaye Collins

Loris Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Samantha Norris announced that the chamber’s headquarters has relocated to 3940 Railroad Ave. in downtown Loris.

The chamber officially transitioned to the new building the day prior to Thanksgiving, with Norris and Executive Assistant Stacy Ginther, the two staff members present on-site, working tirelessly to ensure the new facility was operational.

The chamber’s newly established headquarters covers an area of 8,000 square feet, which is almost three times larger than its previous location at 4242 Main Street. This expanded space features a more open design that is more appropriate for the various events organized by the chamber.

Norris mentioned that one approach the chamber intends to take is to incorporate newspaper clippings from various years onto a prominent wall in the main room of the building.

The chamber has back issues of The Loris Scene from 1950 to the present. It is appropriate that the new headquarters will feature a tribute to Loris history, allowing guests to explore the past through vintage photographs and newspaper articles.

The land is the site of Loris first business, marked by a plaque embedded in the ground in front of the office, indicating that this was the location of the inaugural business in Loris. “In Memory of Daniel James (Jim) Butler, Mary Carolyn (Carrie), wife and Virginia, daughter.  First store 1895, first mayor in 1902 and Loris Hotel 1910, teacher 1896, organized O.E.S. 1927”

The new site will provide the chamber with the chance to host events for the Loris business community, offering additional space and featuring an open-air porch for After Hours and other gatherings. The Leadership Loris Program will have a designated area at the new office for meetings. This program is aimed at developing youth leaders.

Another benefit of the new building is its closeness to the site of the Loris Bog-Off, which takes place every year on the third Saturday of October. The festival will celebrate its 47th consecutive year in 2026.

Norris clarified that the Bog-Off takes place at a location referred to as the Iron Cross, where Railroad Avenue intersects with Main Street near the railroad tracks.

The theme for the 2026 Bog-Off is ‘Beachin’ and Boggin’, featuring Beach music bands. Norris is gathering individuals who are interested in volunteering for chamber events, particularly the Bog-Off. Last year’s Bog-Off faced a shortage of volunteers to aid in the planning and execution of community events, especially the 2026 Loris Bog-Off. This is an opportunity to assist with the planning and spend the day collaborating with the chamber to ensure a successful event. The committee will convene monthly to brainstorm ideas for the Bog-Off and other events organized by the chamber.

The Bog-Off is the most significant event of the year in Loris. It draws over 35,000 attendees for a full day of entertainment, vendors, and a chicken bog cooking competition. According to the Loris Chamber website, “Chicken bog typically includes chicken, rice, sausage, and spices of your preference.”

To become a member of our volunteer committee, please visit their website at https://lorischamber.com/. You can register by completing the volunteer form available on the Loris Chamber website. The Loris Chamber of Commerce is actively looking for volunteers to assist in planning the 2026 Loris Bog-Off and other local events. Community members who are interested can sign up online at www.lorischamber.com under the “Loris Bog-Off Festival” tab to participate, attend monthly meetings, and contribute ideas, energy, and hands-on support.

The Chamber invites enthusiastic individuals to join, foster community spirit, and connect with new people. Upcoming chamber events include the Car Show held on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., please preregister at the chamber’s website. Registration will also be available on the day of the event until 9 a.m. Winners in all categories will be awarded a trophy and recognized for first through third place. Additionally, there will be vendors and food vendors present at this event.

The Market in the Yard commences in March, and every Saturday until September, vendors are permitted to establish their stalls in the yard located on Main Street.

Downtown Tuesday’s will recommence in September and continue until December.

Contact the Loris Chamber of Commerce with any questions.