Grinnell's Annual Ridiculous Day to Support Local Businesses and Community Engagement
The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with downtown businesses to host its annual Ridiculous Day on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in downtown Grinnell. This year, Hotel Grinnell is sponsoring event festivities. Those interested in advertising as part of Ridiculous Day festivities are encouraged to contact the Chamber office at events@getintogrinnell.com or call (641) 236-6555.
“Ridiculous Day originally started as a way to promote our local businesses’ ridiculous deals,” says Rachael Kinnick, President and CEO of the Grinnell Chamber. “But over time, it has truly become an event that builds community engagement with them and encourages the community to become involved with our businesses and organizations.”
The Grinnell Chamber has open vendor spots for local businesses and pop-up vendors willing to host mini-events and deals during Ridiculous Day. Interested parties can register through the Grinnell Chamber website. Additionally, nonprofit organizations are encouraged to register to set up a booth-style station or host an activity, such as Community 1st Credit Union’s mini train station.
As of Tuesday, July 7, participating Chamber businesses and vendors include the following list. An asterisk (*) denotes Grinnell Chamber members:
- AnnaKayte’s Boutique*
- Beckman Gallery & Gifts*
- Brown's Shoe Fit*
- Channing’s Customs & Co.*
- Community 1st Credit Union*: children’s mini train station from 8:30 a.m. - Noon.
- Loralei’s Giftshoppe*
- New Beginnings Rescue
- Pioneer Bookshop*
- Stepping Stones Christian Bookstore*
- The Bread Board
- The Vinyl Stop
- Witte's Home Decorating
For updates and details about participating businesses, sales, and offerings, visit the Ridiculous page on the Grinnell Chamber website: grinnellchamber.org/events/ridiculous_day. Businesses interested in participating can register before Wednesday, July 15, 2026 but to be included in digital marketing materials, should register as soon as possible.
About the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce
The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce is an independent, 501©6 non-profit organization focused on the Grinnell community. The mission of the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce is to support the development and growth of its members, help advance economic growth, and foster community vitality. For more information on how to join the Chamber or get involved, please visit grinnellchamber.org or call (641) 236-6555.
Keep up with the momentum that's happening in and around Greater Des Moines (DSM) when you subscribe to one or all of the Greater Des Moines Partnership's newsletters — they're packed with the latest news, highlighting everything from upcoming events to development projects to policy updates. Join the mailing list to connect with The Partnership and help amplify stories from around the region.