GRANTS, N.M. — The Grants-Cibola County Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host its annual banquet, Pearls and Poker, on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Elks Lodge, located at 805 Charles Street in Grants.
This elegant and entertaining evening will bring together local business leaders, community members, and supporters for a night that blends celebration with purpose.
The evening will begin with a mix and mingle from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., allowing guests to socialize, network, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere before dinner is served. Dinner will be offered from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., featuring a community- favorite entrée, Chicken Mexicali.
At 7:00 p.m., the lights will dim for a fashion show featuring local participants and styles. The show will lead directly into an awards ceremony beginning at 7:30 p.m., where the Chamber will recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community.
Following the awards, the night will shift into high gear. From 8:00 to 11:00 p.m., guests will enjoy dancing to live music by the Black Pearl Band. At the same time, casino-style fun will begin, with gaming tables open for those who want to try their luck in a festive and social setting. This casino portion is just for fun and fundraising, offering chips with admission and opportunities to support the Chamber’s work through additional play.
This year, the Chamber is working hard to elevate the experience by collecting major prize donations, including televisions, electronics, and a $2,500 Chamber membership giveaway. Local businesses are encouraged to contribute items valued at $100 or more to help make the raffle and prize drawings a highlight of the evening.
With the banquet serving as one of the Chamber’s largest fundraisers of the year, proceeds from the event will support year-round programming, luncheons, small business support, and the Chamber’s efforts to strengthen local economic development. The event also helps lay the groundwork for future staffing and longterm sustainability, including the chamber’s priority goal of hiring a full-time director.
This event is expected to be a turning point for the Chamber of Commerce, which is looking to strengthen its mission and return its focus to bettering the business environment in Cibola County.
Tickets for Pearls and Poker are on sale now. Tickets will be $100 per person. Tables of ten are available for businesses and groups, and all are encouraged to attend.
The entire Grants Cibola County Chamber of Commerce Board is volunteer, and they ask for the community to come out and enjoy what is poised to be one of the most exciting nights of the year.
For tickets, call 505240-1338, or 505-2907401, or 505-285-8795, or 505-285-7654.