The 75th Annual Walk to Washington and Congressional Dinner

The NJ Chamber Of Commerce  just celebrated its Centennial Anniversary and we are ready to kick off our second century in grand style with the Diamond Anniversary Walk to Washington and Congressional Dinner. For 74 years, Chamber members have boarded a special Amtrak charter train and traveled to the nation's Capital to dine with our representatives in Congress and the state Legislature, as well as with the governor and his cabinet members. Join us for unprecedented opportunities for conversation, visibility and camaraderie.

Why walk the walk?

To mingle with the state's movers and shakers and make connections that will help your business grow and succeed. As we emerge from the recession, it is more important than ever to ride the rails and meet face-to-face with as many potential clients as possible.

What is the Walk to Washington?

The tradition began in 1937 when several of the state's top business executives took a train to Washington to have dinner with New Jersey's congressional delegation - and the rest is history. The Walk to Washington obtained its name when folks realized that few sit on the train; they literally walk the train mingling and exchanging business cards the whole way to Washington. The adventure begins when the Chamber's chartered Amtrak train departs Newark and our other scheduled stops - Metro Park, New Brunswick, Trenton, Philadelphia and Wilmington - for the ride to Washington.

What is the Congressional Dinner?

It's your best opportunity of the year to meet people, make connections, and build your business. Once at the Marriott Wardman Park, attendees are invited to the Chamber's Grande Reception that will feature special exhibits focused on Jersey Pride. For dinner, will be joined by Governor Chris Christie, members of his cabinet, state legislators and the New Jersey Congressional delegation. The networking continues late into the evening when everyone gets out of their seats for the Chamber's Dessert Extravaganza. This fun and engaging culmination of the dinner debuted last year to rave reviews.

Want more reasons to attend?

You can participate in the many related events provided by leading New Jersey businesses and organizations. Post-dinner hospitality suites and morning breakfasts are all part of the tradition. Our chartered Amtrak train leaves Union Station in Washington late Friday morning and gets you home in time for dinner. Every attendee will also receive a complementary copy of the N.J. Chamber's Centennial Directory and Commemorative Book which includes contact information for all N.J. Chamber of Commerce members.