Join Us for the 16th Annual City of Monroe Groundhog Day Economic Summit

Event update: Groundhog Day Economic Summit postponed

Due to winter weather expected in our area, the City of Monroe’s 16th Annual Groundhog Day Economic Summit, originally scheduled for Monday, February 2, has been postponed.

The event will now take place on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 8 to 10 a.m.

We are thankful to keynote speaker Dr. Michael Walden, our partners at the Union County Chamber of Commerce, and the many contributors who were able to reschedule. We look forward to hosting an amazing summit on March 2.

Thank you for your understanding, and we hope to see you there. If you have not registered for the event and would like to, register at tinyurl.com/MonroeGroundhogDay2026

Original Story

Announcing the 16th Annual City of Monroe Groundhog Day Economic Summit!

Join us Monday, February 2 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Dowd Center Theatre in Monroe (120 S Main Street) as we explore the trends, opportunities, and strategies shaping our economic future.

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Michael Walden as our keynote speaker this year. A nationally recognized economist and longtime authority on North Carolina’s economy, Dr. Walden is the William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University and a familiar voice across television, radio, and print media. Known for translating complex economic trends into clear, practical insight, he brings decades of research, public service, and real-world perspective to the conversation.

The event will include time for networking with other business and community leaders and a presentation followed by a Q&A session with Dr. Walden.

As part of Monroe’s America 250 recognition in 2026, the Groundhog Day Economic Summit will spotlight some of the City’s longest-operating businesses and examine what their history can teach us about long-term economic success.

Don’t miss this chance to prepare your business for the future.

The event is free, but registration is required. Register here: tinyurl.com/MonroeGroundhogDay2026

Not able to attend last year’s summit? Watch the recording of the event on our YouTube.

Follow the City of Monroe on Facebook for updates and additional event details.