August 25, 2026
June, July & August 2026 VACC Newsletter
By Summer Rueda
Highlights and Events from June, July and August!
Meet our VACC Staff !!! We are pleased to introduce Norma Gleason and Summer Rueda our two office staff members. We couldn't do what we do without them.
4th of July Fireworks
The VACC had a great time helping with the 4th of July Fireworks event held at the Craig County Fairgrounds.
July Lunch and Learn:
The Chamber hosted a Lunch N' Learn on July 21st at the New Vinita Welcome Center. Our speakers were Rachel Hall and Shelby Norris from our sponsor, Home Instead, who provided a great program on the resources available for non-medical in-home senior care. A fabulous lunch was, provided by our sponsor, Piguet's Prime Time. Thank you to our additional sponsor, Welch State Bank. We are sincerely thankful for all who were able to attend!
Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo Parade
The Rodeo Parade was a huge success. Thank you to all those who entered and helped make it a great day. Thank you to our volunteers who helped make the parade a success again this year!!! Thank you to the City of Vinita for Sponsoring the Parade !!
Rodeo Business Decorating Contest !!! Congratulations to Artistry for winning the 2026 Rodeo Decorating Contest and thank you to all of the businesses who participated.
2026 Vinita Calf Fry & BBQ Cook-Off
The 2026 Vinita Calf Fry & BBQ Cook-Off is coming in hot on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 3–6 p.m. — and this year is shaping up to be bigger, louder, and tastier than ever!
Come hungry and ready for an unforgettable afternoon packed with mouthwatering food, live bands, unique vendors, and a wild finish with our crowd-favorite Cowboy Games 🤠
Trust us—you do NOT want to miss this. Go ahead and mark your calendar now!
🍖 Calling all Cook Teams! 🍖
Think you’ve got what it takes to win it all? Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a fearless first-timer, it’s time to round up your crew and sign up!
💰 We’ve increased the prize money this year—so bring your best flavors and your competitive spirit!
🔥 Spots won’t last—join the fun and claim your place at one of the most exciting events of the year! 🔥
Link to sign up your team online:
🍰 Specialty Food Vendors Wanted!
Got something sweet or unique? We want YOU!! Space is limited and vendors must be approved.
Link to online application:
Want to be a Vendor at the Calf-Fry ? It will be inside this year !!!
🎸🔥 Battle of the Red Dirt Bands is ON! 🔥🎸
Get ready for an epic showdown as EIGHT incredible bands go head-to-head during the Calf Fry for awesome prizes and ultimate bragging rights!
Feel the energy, hear the best in Red Dirt music, and cheer on your favorites as they battle it out live. This is more than a performance—it’s a full-on musical throwdown you won’t forget!
Link to sign up your band online:
💼 Become a Sponsor! 💼
Want your business in the spotlight? Partner with us for the 2026 Vinita Calf Fry & BBQ Cook-Off and gain valuable exposure while supporting an incredible community event.
Link to Sponsor the Calf Fry online:
🐎 5:30 PM – It’s time for the Cowboy Games!
Hold onto your hats—this is where things get wild! Don’t miss the action-packed finale full of fun, skill, and cowboy spirit. Check out the flyer for more information on how to enter your team !!
Great news we've added a morning event Open Ranch Horse Show !!! It's going to be a full day of fun and excitement you won't want to miss 1!
If you prefer a paper application for sponsorship, cook-teams or the Battle of the Bands please email vinitachamber@gmail.com and we will send you an application to complete and return by mail.
Calf-Fry T-Shirts pre-orders are still available through August 25, 2026. We have several ways to pre-order your one of a kind shirt. Online through the VACC website or 66 Apparel website, In person at the VACC office, BancFirst, Welch State Bank or Artistry Salon. We will have limited adult sizes for sale at the event so get your t-shirt pre-ordered today!!!! Kids sizes only available when pre-ordering.
**Octoberfest !! ** 
Save the Date for our Annual VACC Banquet
Our Annual VACC Banquet is being held on November 5, 2026 this year !!!! Mark your calendar. Tickets will go on sale in September.
Christmas Parade Theme
Hard to believe we are asking for ideas for our Christmas Parade Theme in August but we've been asked to get the theme out earlier this year. So.... Submit your ideas to vinitachamber@gmail.com by September 9, 2026. We will pick a winner at our September Board Meeting. If your idea is selected you will receive a gift card.
Thank you to all of our VACC Members for your continued support. Don't forget we offer free advertising on our website to our members. Contact the Chamber office at 918-256-7133 or email vinitachamber@gmail.com