Master of Ceremonies Joe Milledge introduced each Young Ambassador contestant to the audience. As part of the evening’s entertainment, The Little Christmas Elf was read to the children and crowd. The highlight of the night came when the winners were announced and each child received a gift presented by Santa.

“This contest offers a unique way for our youngest community members, ages 3 through kindergarten, to be part of the holiday celebrations while supporting two wonderful causes: New Sharon Child Care & Preschool and Turning on the Lights,” said Angie Foster, Oskaloosa Main Street Director. “It’s also a fun and meaningful way to kick off parade week, bringing the community together through generosity and holiday spirit.”

This year’s 2025 Young Ambassador Queen is Kaelynn Graham, daughter of Hope Starr and Eric Graham. The Young Ambassador King is Koen Martin, son of Kayla and Brock Martin.

In addition to the winners, the following children participated in the contest: Avery Shields, Avianna Hayes, Adrienne Shields, Serenity Asher, Sutton Colter, Makayla Beuthien, Everly Rozenboom, Everly McDonald, Levi Vogel, Steven Sattz, Cashous Adams, Wade Garlinghouse, Maddox Harms, and Titus Boender.

All children received gifts donated by local merchants, including Mahaska Drug and Hy-Vee. Thank you also to Mahaska County ISU Extension and MCG for donating items to make the evening special.

All Young Ambassador participants are invited to help spread the magic of Christmas by riding on the Mahaska Drug Express during the “Holiday Joys & Toys” Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6, at 7:00 p.m.

Oskaloosa Main Street extends heartfelt thanks to all contestants, sponsors, Chamber Diplomats for collecting and tallying votes, and everyone who helped with the event.

Congratulations to the 2025 Young Ambassador winners—see you Saturday at the parade!