RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 10, 2026, AS NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COSTUME STORE DAY

On 2026-09-24, Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-5) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 10, 2026, AS NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COSTUME STORE DAY" in the House.

RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 10, 2026, AS NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COSTUME STORE DAY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E968] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING OCTOBER 10, 2026, AS NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COSTUME STORE DAY ______ HON. MIKE QUIGLEY of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, September 24, 2026 Mr. QUIGLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Saturday, October 10, 2026, as the inaugural National Independent Costume Store Day. Created by the National Costumers Association to celebrate independent costume stores across the country, this day recognizes the pivotal role these stores play in our communities. Independent costume stores across the Nation will create their own celebrations, including customer appreciation events, costume showcases, behind-the-scenes tours, cosplay gatherings, theater partnerships, educational programs, charity fundraisers, and other activities that highlight what makes their businesses special. This day celebrates independent costume stores' support for schools, theaters, performers, community events, local traditions, and creative expression. These neighborhood businesses are filled with creativity, expertise, history, and passion for making our communities stronger. Our own local family business, Chicago Costume Company, serves Chicagoland and beyond, helping bring local productions, celebrations, educational programs, and public events to life. Small businesses like Chicago Costume Company are a pillar of our creative community, most recently supplying the ``Pope Hats'' for the Chicago White Sox. Not only do these endeavors keep manufacturing and design jobs local; they showcase our community to the world--Pope Leo XIV received his own Pope Hat from the Chicago Costume Company at the Vatican. Mr. Speaker, I ask everyone to join me in recognizing National Independent Costume Store Day and thanking Chicago Costume Company for their commitment and service to the Chicago community. ____________________