Oskaloosa Kicks Off Holiday Season With “Turn On The Lights,” Looks Ahead to Lighted Christmas Parade

Oskaloosa has turned on the lights for the 2025 holiday season.

The holiday season in Oskaloosa is officially underway after the community gathered on the downtown square for the annual “Turn On The Lights” event.

Families filled the sidewalks around the square as the sun went down. Children pointed at the dark buildings, waiting to see them glow. Parents and grandparents visited with friends and neighbors, many saying this is how they start their Christmas season every year.

The event, organized by Oskaloosa Main Street and community partners, celebrated both the lights themselves and the people who help make downtown special. This year’s program included a special recognition of Deb and Byron Bruxvoort as Citizens of the Year for their long-time service to Oskaloosa.

Deb has spent many years working with Main Street projects and helping tell the story of Mahaska County. She is often one of the first people called when someone has a question about local history or downtown events. Byron is known as a “behind the scenes” helper who is always willing to move supplies, fix things, and pitch in whenever something needs to be done. Together, they have helped with everything from summer events and parades to Christmas preparations and downtown clean-up.

The crowd gathered near the bandstand as the program wrapped up and the big moment arrived. Everyone joined in a loud countdown as Deb and Byron stepped up to flip the switch. When they did, the buildings around the square lit up at once with the brightness of the buildings creating the magical glow Oskaloosa has become known for over the past decade.

For many people, “Turn On The Lights” is a tradition that marks the start of the season. The lights will remain on through the holidays, giving residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the downtown display each evening.

Now, attention turns to the next major holiday event: the annual Lighted Christmas Parade. The parade is set for Saturday, December 6, at 7 p.m. in downtown Oskaloosa.

The Lighted Christmas Parade is one of the most popular events of the year. Dozens of entries are expected, including lighted floats, walking groups, and illuminated vehicles from local businesses, churches, schools, and community organizations. With the downtown buildings already lit for the season, the parade creates a bright and colorful scene as it moves around the square.

Families are encouraged to arrive early to find a good viewing spot and to visit downtown shops and restaurants before the parade begins. Many people also use the evening to take family photos in front of the decorated buildings and Christmas displays.

With “Turn On The Lights” complete and the Lighted Christmas Parade just around the corner, Oskaloosa’s downtown is ready to be a gathering place for the community throughout the holiday season. Oskaloosa News will continue to share updates, photos, and video from both events to help those who attend — and those watching from home — feel part of the celebration.