OSKALOOSA — The 2024 Lighted Christmas Parade held on Saturday, December 7, was a huge success. “It was a night to remember,” shared Angella Foster, Oskaloosa Main Street Director. “Seeing the joy on people’s faces, from the little children marveling at the stunning lighted floats to families singing along with the Oskaloosa City Band members, was truly heartwarming. The way our community and visitors come together to celebrate in our beautifully decorated city square is what makes Oskaloosa so magical during the holidays.”
With more than 60 participating floats and over 16,600 people in attendance, there was an immense economic impact on the community. An estimated $350,000 was spent on dining, lodging, travel expenses, and fuel for this one-night event.
This year’s Parade winners are as follows:
Most Outstanding 1st and 2nd Place Non-Profit – Mahaska Health and Shriner Hillbilly Clan 103
Most Outstanding 1st and 2nd Place For-Profit – Mahaska and Musco
Judge’s Choice – WPU Theatre/Uplifting Puppet Co.
Children’s Choice – Chasing Positivity Dream Team
The week-long festivities leading up to the Lighted Christmas Parade bring so much holiday cheer. On Monday, December 2, Huk Visser and Halstyn Timm were announced as the 2024 Oskaloosa Main Street Young Ambassador King and Queen. The pair, along with nine other participants, raised over $1,500. This year’s beneficiaries are the Oskaloosa Early Learning Center and the Lighted Christmas Parade.
Oskaloosa’s annual Window Decorating Contest had 11 participants. Oskaloosa Main Street volunteers selected MidWestOne Motor Bank, located at 222 1St Ave E as this year’s winner for using festive decorations and perfectly matching the theme ‘Twinkling Christmas.’ The winner is awarded the coveted traveling trophy and $50 in Chamber Cash.
Several Oskaloosa residents dressed up their homes to enter this year’s Home Decorating Competition. Lori Oaks (Hawkeye Real Estate), and helpers drove through Oskaloosa looking for the best Christmas light displays. Each of the five winners will receive $100 in Chamber Cash and a yard sign display. Thank you to the many sponsors who help make the Home Decorating Contest possible each year! Best in Show: Alvern & Jane Boetsma, 1201 Arbor Trace; The Griswold Award: Rob Lines, 304 C Ave East; Most Festive: Jeff, Virginia, and Jeremy Pierson, 1502 South 7th Street; Best Use of Lights: Mark Mauer, 2000 Carbonado Road; Best Use of Color: Ben & Mindy Hoskinson, 2116 Forrest Ave.
Invite family and friends to visit Oskaloosa. Enjoy Painting with Lights every night until January 5, 2025, from 4:30-11 pm.
