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Big Bear Chamber to host 2026 Local Candidates Forum on Sept. 24

The free, three-hour event at Destination Big Bear will let residents hear directly from candidates seeking seats on local boards and agencies — but which races will be represented has not yet been announced.

By Big Bear News1 min read2 sources

The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce will host the 2026 Local Candidates Forum on Thursday, September 24, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Destination Big Bear, 713 Stocker Road in Big Bear Lake. The event is free and open to the public, giving mountain residents a rare chance to hear from candidates running for local boards and agencies — the decision-makers who shape everything from water rates to school policy to fire protection in Big Bear Valley.

What to expect at the forum

The evening will follow a moderated format: candidates will answer questions prepared by the Forum Committee and the moderator, as well as questions submitted in advance by Chamber members. That structure means the bulk of the questioning is shaped by Chamber-affiliated voices rather than open audience queries — something residents may want to keep in mind when weighing how broadly the conversation will range.

The Chamber's announcement describes the forum as a chance for community members "to learn more about the candidates, where they stand on local issues, and the decisions that could affect our community," but the specific races — and the names of the candidates who will appear — have not been listed in available materials. Big Bear Valley voters should watch the Chamber's website and local election filings in the weeks ahead to confirm which seats are on the November ballot and which candidates have accepted invitations to participate.

In-person and virtual options

Attendance is free, and light refreshments and light fare will be served. The Chamber is asking attendees to RSVP in advance to help plan seating and food — a register button is available on the event page at business.bigbearchamber.com (opens in a new tab). For those who can't make it in person, a virtual viewing option will be available and the forum will be recorded; the Chamber will post access details on its website before the event.

For questions about the forum, contact the Chamber at (909) 866-4607.

Sources (2)

  1. 1.
    Big Bear Chamber of Commerce — Local Candidates Forum event page
    5:00 PM - 8:00 PM PDT Thursday, September 24, 2026 5:00 p.m. Location Destination Big Bear 713 Stocker Road Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
    Open original (opens in a new tab)
  2. 2.
    Big Bear Chamber of Commerce Events Feed
    The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce invites the community to attend the 2026 Local Candidates Forum on Thursday, September 24th at 5:00 p.m. at Destination Big Bear.
    Open original (opens in a new tab)

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About: Big Bear Chamber to host 2026 Local Candidates Forum on Sept. 24

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