OSKALOOSA — The 2025 Lighted Christmas Parade held on Saturday, December 6, was a huge success! Oskaloosa Main Street thanks all who participated, volunteered, and sponsored the 38th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. “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 70 participating floats and over 11,300 people in attendance, there was an immense economic impact on the community. An estimated $228,000 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 –1st Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation, 2nd Oskaloosa Marching Indians
Most Outstanding 1st and 2nd Place For-Profit – 1st Musco Sports Lighting, 2nd Mahaska
Judge’s Choice – Sparks Family Entrepreneurs
Children’s Choice – Mahaska Drug
Honorable Mentions – Van Donselaar Automotive, G&G Pronto, & Nutrien Ag Solutions- Oskaloosa
The week-long festivities leading up to the Lighted Christmas Parade bring so much holiday cheer. On Monday, December 1, Koen Martin and Kaelynn Graham were announced as the 2025 Oskaloosa Main Street Young Ambassador King and Queen. The pair, along with 14 other participants, raised over $2500. This year’s beneficiaries are the New Sharon Child Care & Preschool and the Lighted Christmas Parade.
Oskaloosa’s annual Window Decorating Contest had 8 participants. Oskaloosa Main Street volunteers selected Mahaska Drug, located at 205 N E St. as this year’s winner for using festive decorations and perfectly matching the theme “Holiday Joys & Toys.’ 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: Enza Lobberecht, 1868 270th St.; The Griswold Award: Rob & Dana Lines, 304 C Ave East; Most Festive: Wade & Jodi Steinlage, 201 West Glendale; 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, 2026, from 4:30-11 pm. Grab a warm cup of coffee at the local coffee shop; enter the decorated alleys; visit the quaint little bookstore for a good read and explore the unique shops along the square.
