Downtown Oakdale was completely alive on Saturday, Dec. 2, a day when thousands of people gathered in the community.
As Downtown Christmas celebrated its 15th year, the appeal of the event was clear, with more than 100 stalls lining North 3rd and E Streets offering gifts, merchandise and food from a variety of cuisines.
While the hustle and bustle on North Third continued into the night, on the other side of town, the Oakdale Enrichment Society was busy as more than 75 floats began lining up at FES Hall for the 7th annual Christmas Parade. Ta.
Children, car clubs, and enthusiastic community members set off east on the Poplar River to North Second just after 4 p.m. Approximately 2,000 people lined the streets to support the participants. Rounding out the parade line was none other than Cowboy Santa himself, who brought Mrs. Claus along for the festivities.
But perhaps because the activities taking place at Wood Park, in the heart of town, have reminded visitors and local residents alike of Oakdale’s commitment to not only celebrating the spirit of Christmas, but supporting the community. Sho.
A small tree menagerie sponsored by various service clubs, businesses and families led the way to the center of the park where a large tree was lit. Surrounding the tall timber were painted wood decorations, also sponsored by the community, and a newly installed light tunnel to the south of it.
“Christmas trees have long been a symbol of hope, joy and renewal,” Oakdale Mayor Cher Bairos said in remarks prior to Saturday’s tree lighting ceremony. “It stands tall, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. It casts a glow that reaches into every corner of downtown. It is a reminder of the goodness within each of us and the strength we find when we come together.” It’s the light that lets me do it.”
Bairos also paid tribute to the organizations and individuals who came together to make the event possible. Special recognition was given to Community Hospice and Mel Bradley for sponsoring what will become an annual tree lighting event.
“So by lighting up these trees, we can serve as a symbol of the love and joy we bring to each other during this season,” Mayor Bairos said.
Love Oakdale Director Lisa Kjeldgaard echoed the mayor’s sentiments, thanking the community, organizations and volunteers who not only made the event possible, but made it a success.
“On behalf of the Small Town Christmas Committee, I would like to thank the 94 local businesses, organizations and families who sponsored the decorations,” Kjeldgaard said.
She then shared the results of the Downtown Business Window Decorating Contest sponsored by Love Oakdale. There were a total of 22 entries.
Out of 22 entries, the top three were awarded. Astro Thrift and Gift Store, 3rd place; Roberts Ferry Gourmet took second place and Boutique at Tiffany took first place.
The ceremony ended with Mel Bradley and Mayor Byros pressing a ceremonial button to ignite the trees.