Photos of every entry from the 2024 Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade:
Nov 26, 2024
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is one of the most highly anticipated holiday traditions in the Fox Cities, attracting thousands of spectators to its festive streets each year.
This beloved event, which winds its way through the heart of downtown, showcases a dazzling array of floats, marching bands, and community groups, all coming together to spread Christmas cheer and create a memorable holiday experience for all.
Take a look at every entry in this year's Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade:
Pre-Parade Units
Lawrence University collecting for St. Joseph's Food Program
WIXX
Adapted Sports League
Lakeside Packaging
Gold Cross
Renewal by Andersen
Outagamie County Highway Department
Appleton Police Department Squad, Color Guard, and State Patrol
The Appleton Police Honor Guard, established 22 years ago, is renowned for its precision in rifle handling, flag details, and marching. Leading tonight's Christmas Parade is Officer Kori Looker, driving the Appleton Police Department's community outreach squad. A proud graduate of Lawrence University, Officer Looker joined the department in March 2024, bringing her passion and commitment to serving the community.
The Wisconsin State Patrol, which has served the state since 1939, assists local, county, and tribal agencies, as well as state and federal partners. Trooper Tom Behm, a member of the State Patrol, will drive the second lead vehicle. The Honor Guard is led by Lt. Ryan Neff and Sgt. Josef Whitney, whose professionalism and dedication guide their team.
Appleton City Band
The Appleton City Band has proudly represented the city for over 70 years, known for its vibrant performances. The Concert Band, under the direction of Jim Thaldorf, hosts free outdoor concerts each summer at Pierce Park.
The Parade Band is also a key presence at Appleton parades, bringing music and spirit to every event under the direction of An Gehrmann.
Their dedication continues to make them a beloved part of the Appleton community.
Parade Marshals – Mark Behnke & Bobbi Jo Paschke
This year's Parade Marshals are Mark Behnke and Bobbi Jo Paschke, longtime owners and managers of Bazil's Pub & Provisions, Olde Town Tavern, and Firefly Lounge. After more than 30 years leading these iconic Appleton establishments, they have recently passed the torch but remain influential in the community through Behnke Properties.
Their lasting impact on Downtown Appleton is being celebrated, honoring their generosity, innovation, and dedication to enhancing College Avenue's vibrancy.
Makaroff Youth Ballet
Makaroff Youth Ballet is thrilled to once again be part of the Appleton Christmas Parade!
Dancers from the company, alongside students from the Makaroff School of Ballet, will perform a holiday-themed rendition of The Nutcracker, bringing the magic of the season to life with each graceful movement.
Tennies Jewelry
Happy Holidays from Tennies Jewelry, the valley's oldest family-owned independent jeweler. For over 120 years, Tennies Jewelry has been creating lasting memories for families.
Visit their locations in downtown Appleton and downtown Oshkosh, where tradition and craftsmanship come together to celebrate life's special moments.
Appleton West High School Band
The Appleton West Marching Band, directed by Casey Parker, fills the streets with festive cheer.
Drum majors Mark Wisniewski, Landon Ravenhorst, and Lyndsey Burmeister, along with the talented dance and cheer teams, bring their timeless holiday favorite, Sleigh Ride, to life—a classic they've proudly performed at this parade for decades.
Appleton Technical Academy
The Appleton Technical Academy and Eagle Plastics bring creativity and craftsmanship to the Christmas season. Students have applied their skills in welding, machining, electronics, and woodworking to bring this festive float to life.
Special thanks to Eagle Plastics for their continued support, helping create lasting memories for students at Appleton Technical Academy.
Appleton International Airport
This holiday season, make your travel merry and bright with Appleton International Airport. Skip the long lines and enjoy convenient curbside parking, just a short stroll to your gate. Whether you're flying to a white sand Christmas or another destination, Appleton Airport is the easy way to start your holiday journey.
Badger Family Fun Center/Fox Valley Autism
Badger Family Fun Center and Fox Valley Autism are spreading holiday cheer at the Appleton Parade! Their float is all about sharing hope, joy, and love. Look out for "Buddy," waving from the back of the truck, wishing families along College Avenue a warm holiday season.
Kaukauna High School Band
The Kaukauna High School Marching Ghosts, including the marching band, color guard, and dance team, bring 150 talented members to the parade.
Directed by Jacob Martin, with color guard instructors Summer Aldinger and Tiffany Posorski, the band had the honor of performing in New York City's historic St. Patrick's Day Parade last year. The varsity dance team, coached by Aubree Schmidt and Erin Jansen, proudly celebrated their first-ever National Championship win at the Contest of Champions Nationals.
The Kaukauna Area School District wishes you a joyful holiday season!
East Wisconsin Savings Bank
Barry Wood, Member Service Officer at East Wisconsin Savings Bank, is proudly driving Mabel, a beautifully decorated Model A, this holiday season.
For over 137 years, East Wisconsin Savings Bank has been committed to helping the Fox Valley community build a "wonderful life," and they look forward to continuing that mission for many years to come.
Waterboard Warriors Water Ski Show Team
The Waterboard Warriors Water Ski Show Team, a non-profit organization, performs free live ski shows on the Fox River at Mueller Park in Wrightstown. Shows run at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays in June and at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August. Join them as they showcase their impressive skills, featuring a powerful triple-engine ski boat and talented performers.
Friends of Grignon Mansion
The Grignon Mansion, located in Kaukauna, was built in 1837 by Charles A. Grignon, a French-Canadian fur trader and interpreter. A historic gem on the Fox River, the Mansion hosts events like the Grignon Mansion Car Show, Civil War Living History Demonstration, and Christmas Tours. Explore its rich history and vibrant traditions that make it a cornerstone of the community.
Peshtigo High School Marching Band
The Peshtigo High School Marching Band, featuring 30 students from grades 9 to 12, proudly represents the Peshtigo School District. These dedicated musicians perform at halftime shows and participate in parades, with tonight marking another cherished appearance at the Appleton Christmas Parade.
Harvey Pierre VFW Post #2778
The VFW honors U.S. war veterans with five Honor Guard members carrying the American, POW, and Post flags, flanked by rifle bearers. Following them is a beautifully decorated vehicle spreading Christmas cheer while honoring the spirit of service and remembrance. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful holiday season.
Scarlet Guard American Legion Color Guard
The Scarlet Guard American Legion Color Guard marches proudly with members of the American Legion Family, recruiters from the Army, Marines, and Air Force, veterans, and Scout Troop 12. This unified group promotes peace and goodwill, sponsored by Sola Salons, the Maritime Bar, Boyle Auto Sales, and SDS Painting.
Classic Hits 103.9 WVBO & Trees for Troops
Classic Hits 103.9 WVBO partners with Schroeder's Forevergreens of Neenah for Trees for Troops, an initiative providing Christmas trees to military families. Over 300,000 trees have been donated since 2005, with local trees sent to Fort Cavazos in Texas last year. Tune in for your favorite holiday music this season on 103.9 WVBO!
Little Chute High School Band
The Little Chute Middle and High School Marching Band, led by drum majors Bryn Fuchs and Aron O'Bannon, performs the Merry Christmas March, featuring We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Joined by the Little Chute Dance Team, who have earned a National Championship title, their festive performance is sure to delight the crowd.
Valley Transit
A beautifully decorated 40-foot New Flyer Public Transit bus brims with festive cheer. Its dazzling display of seasonal spirit brings smiles to everyone along the parade route, showcasing the vibrance and joy of the holiday season.
Boys & Girls Club of the Fox Valley
The Letters to Santa float brings the magic of holiday traditions to life. Featuring a North Pole postal snow machine overflowing with Christmas wishes, this float, presented by the Boys & Girls Club of Fox Valley and Miron Construction, spreads joy and captures the essence of Yuletide wonder.
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group
Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, a cornerstone of the community for over 50 years, proudly celebrates its role in shaping downtown Appleton. From preserving historic buildings to investing in new landmarks, their commitment to the city's growth is a testament to their dedication to making College Avenue vibrant and thriving.
Menominee High School Band
The Menominee High School Marching Maroons perform Conga Line Christmas, a festive Latin twist on Jingle Bells. This lively group of 30 talented musicians brings joy and rhythm to the parade with their energetic celebration of the season.
Greystone Mining and Greystone Transport
The Greystone Mining and Greystone Transport float captures the spirit of the season with a cozy campfire scene. Greystone, a Sturgeon Bay-based stone quarry, and Greystone Transport, operating out of Appleton, showcase their family-friendly float with a snowy forest setting and a family roasting marshmallows by the fire.
NEW Fusion Dance
New Fusion Dance & Performing Arts, featuring dancers aged 3 to 18, spreads holiday cheer with their performance of Home for the Holidays by Pentatonix. Offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop, they are passionate about engaging with the community and supporting charitable efforts.
Rennes Health and Rehab Center Appleton
Rennes Health and Rehab Center and The Renaissance by Rennes of Appleton present their float, Christmas in Candyland, capturing the whimsy and joy of the season. They provide senior care services with short-term rehab, long-term care, and therapy, wishing you a magical holiday season filled with warmth and sweetness.
New London High School Band
The New London High School Marching Band, featuring 60 talented students, performs in local parades, concerts, and jazz bands. Directed by Alex Rambo, the band is joined by the New London Dance Team, who have made 8 consecutive state appearances and aim to keep the streak alive this season.
Winnegamie Dog Club
The Winnegamie Dog Club, established in 1958, promotes responsible pet ownership through various training classes and events. Dedicated to the welfare of dogs, the club is a valuable resource in the community, helping strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.
The Salvation Army Fox Cities
Featuring the largest red kettle in Wisconsin at an impressive eight feet tall and weighing over one and 3 tons! Driving the float is Azco, who has been partnering with The Salvation Army for over 30 years. Wedding Perfect has also played a vital role in the spirit of giving back by helping give the float an entirely new look for the first time in over 15 years. This beloved float represents a social service agency that has been supporting local families in need since 1917. As we celebrate the 107th anniversary of The Salvation Army in the Fox Cities, let's remember their vital role in providing food, clothing, and spiritual assistance. This holiday season, please give generously to the Salvation Army's red kettles to help families in our community!
Outagamie County Sheriff's Office
The Outagamie County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard, with seven dedicated members, serves to honor fallen officers and present the nation's colors at events. Their commitment to protecting and serving the community is showcased in their proud participation in the parade.
Freedom High School Band
The Freedom High School Marching Irish, featuring over 60 students and dance teams, recently performed at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial during spring break. Directed by Stacey Ruckdashel, their spirited performance is a joyful celebration of the season.
Festival Foods
Festival Foods presents the BIG Cart, a 12-foot-long, 14-foot-tall shopping cart powered by a 350 Chevy engine. It can carry over 400 grocery bags and is sure to bring festive fun and smiles to the crowd. Festival Foods wishes everyone a Happy Holiday season filled with joy, food, and great company.
Marine 365
Marine 365 presents a breathtaking display of holiday magic with the Enchanted Avenue of Christmas Spirits. Revel Dance Academy brings enchantment to the streets with their performance, while the Lifestyle Boat Club showcases the aquatic beauty of winter, creating a stunning holiday scene.
Evergreen Campsites & Resorts
The Chippy Express from Evergreen Campsites & Resort, decked out in over 1,500 lights, brings holiday cheer to the streets of the Appleton Christmas Parade. For over 17 years, this family tradition has captured the spirit of the season, delighting children and adults alike with its festive charm.
Weyauwega-Fremont High School Band
Enjoy a festive performance by the Weyauwega-Fremont High School Marching Band, directed by Mr. Andrew Schmidt. Tonight, they'll play a lively medley of holiday classics, including "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," "A Holly Jolly Christmas," and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," arranged by John Edmonson. Get into the holiday spirit with their joyful music!
August Winters & Sons
August Winters & Sons presents a festive float adorned with holiday decorations, featuring a vibrant tractor and semi-trailer. Atop the trailer, a gingerbread-style house and twinkling Christmas tree shine down on a pile of gifts. In partnership with the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, this float spreads cheer and highlights the spirit of giving this season.
Fox Cities Cycling Association
The Fox Cities Cycling Association advocates for biking safety and growth in the Fox Cities. Partnering with the Appleton Police Department, they support the Bike Ambassador program and offer free bike repair stations. Their dedication makes cycling safer and more enjoyable, and they sponsor many community events that promote the fun of biking.
Eric's Winter and Landscape
Eric's Winter and Sons Landscape Services brings Whoville to life with a delightful float inspired by The Grinch. Featuring festive decorations and creative details, their display captures the whimsical joy of the holiday season, brightening the parade with holiday cheer.
Bonduel High School Band
The Bonduel High School Marching Band has been a cherished part of the Appleton Christmas Parade since 1995. Joined by their Honor Guard and flag team, their performance is sure to fill the streets with energy and festive cheer. Let's celebrate their continued tradition of holiday music!
WLUK Fox 11 & WCWF CW 14
FOX 11 and CW 14 wish everyone a joyful holiday season! The FOX 11 Storm Chaser pulls a float with the Good Day Wisconsin team, sending warm wishes to all. From breaking news to festive cheer, they're ready to help make this holiday season special for you and your family.
Appleton Parks and Recreation – Unity Dance & Acrobatics
Unity Dance & Acrobatics, a non-competitive program from Appleton Parks and Recreation, offers a space for everyone to enjoy dance and acrobatics. Tonight, they'll showcase the joy of movement, celebrating healthy recreation and the friendships formed through their fun and safe environment.
MCC, Inc.
MCC, a family-owned business serving Northeast Wisconsin for over 99 years, spreads holiday cheer with its festive float. Featuring dazzling lights and a pile of presents, the float showcases MCC's warm wishes for a Merry Christmas, along with their commitment to building the future of Northeast Wisconsin.
Appleton East High School Band
Under the direction of Margaret LaFleur, the Appleton East Patriots Marching Band brings us a Christmas Medley titled "Santa Parade," continuing a tradition they began as the opening band in the first Appleton Christmas Parade. Proud to represent Wisconsin at the 50th anniversary celebration of Vietnam Veterans in March, they'll bring their holiday spirit to life in the parade.
Appleton Fire Department
Ladder Truck Company 9341 of the Appleton Fire Department, serving city-wide from Fire Station #1, is ready to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Their dedicated team is here to remind us all to celebrate safely during this festive time.
Appleton Public Library with Boldt Company
Step into a magical Candyland as College Avenue transforms into a winter wonderland. This float features beloved characters from the Candyland board game, including Lord Licorice, Princess Lolly, and Queen Frostine, guiding visitors through a colorful and sweet holiday adventure, all the way to the Gingerbread Appleton Public Library.
St. Joseph Catholic Church
St. Joseph Catholic Parish honors the true Christmas spirit with a float featuring a live Nativity scene, showcasing the birth of Jesus Christ. The church's dedication to charity, through organizations like the St. Joseph Food Pantry and LEAVEN, makes this a heartfelt reminder of the season's generosity and love.
Little Wolf Manawa High School Marching Band
The School District of Manawa's Marching Band, including both high school and middle school students, brings festive cheer with their performance. As part of a comprehensive music department, they represent the district's strong commitment to fostering a love of music and community.
TDS Fiber
TDS Fiber, a leader in high-speed fiber-optic internet, spreads holiday cheer with their float, "TDS Baking Spirits Bright." The float features a gingerbread house pulled by a TDS Field Services truck, embodying the joy of the season while showcasing TDS's fast and reliable internet services.
Footworks Dance Company
Footworks Dance Company from Kimberly, Wisconsin, inspires dancers of all ages with their performances. From toddlers to adults, they teach the joy of movement, and tonight they bring that energy to the parade, celebrating the winter season and the joy of dance.
Fox Cities Festival of Lights
The Fox Cities Festival of Lights invites everyone to enjoy a walk-through holiday light display at Darboy Community Park. With 200,000 twinkling lights and dozens of custom displays, the event is a family favorite, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofits to keep this holiday tradition alive.
Kimberly High School Band
The Kimberly High School Papermaker Marching Band, led by directors Mr. Craig Gall and Mr. Daniel Goethals, brings a swinging rendition of "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" to the parade. With 155 musicians and color guard members, their performance is sure to spread holiday joy. This spring, they'll perform in Winnipeg as part of their impressive travel history.
Hilbert Trolley Co. LLC
Hilbert Trolley Company brings us back in time with an old-time trolley, filled with holiday lights and the joy of simpler times. Passengers aboard enjoy the festive atmosphere, relishing the season's magic as they travel along the Avenue of Angels.
Schabel Exteriors
Schabel Exteriors spreads holiday cheer with a float featuring a 2022 white Dodge Ram, towing a trailer adorned with twinkling lights. Specializing in high-quality roofing, siding, and gutters, Schabel Exteriors wishes everyone a blessed holiday season.
Vande Hey Brantmeier Automotive
Vande Hey Brantmeier Automotive Group, based in Chilton, Wisconsin, presents a float featuring Thomas the Tank Engine pulling a toy window display. Their float brings holiday joy to children and families as they celebrate the season with festive cheer.
Xavier High School Band
The Xavier High School Marching Band, led by Drum Majors Hailey Holub and Keira Peterson, spreads holiday spirit with their festive performance. Directed by Mr. Alex Mazur, the talented students are ready to bring joy to the parade with their lively music.
St. Joseph Food Program, Inc.
St. Joseph's Food Pantry shares a heartwarming float featuring a family enjoying a Christmas dinner. For over 40 years, the pantry has provided holiday meals to families in need, showcasing the generosity and community support that defines the season.
YMCA of the Fox Cities Dance Program
The YMCA of the Fox Cities' dance programs, Inspire Dance Studio and Studio Y, present an energetic performance filled with festive cheer. Showcasing the talent of dancers of all ages, they highlight the joy of movement and the community spirit of the holiday season.
Holy Spirit Catholic School
The Holy Spirit Marching Band, made up of 23 talented musicians, performs a medley of beloved Christmas carols, including "Joy to the World" and "Angels We Have Heard on High." Directed by Nathan Graff, the band brings the holiday spirit to life with their joyful music.
Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes
The Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes bring the "Avenue of Christmas Spirits" to life with their mobile unit, Adventures on the Go. Dressed in festive gear, local Girl Scouts and volunteers celebrate the spirits of adventure, leadership, and community service.
Touchmark on West Prospect
The residents of Touchmark on West Prospect wish everyone a joyful holiday season. Through performances, art programs, and community involvement, they embrace the spirit of College Avenue and the festive joy it brings to the neighborhood.
Marinette High School Band
The Marching Marines from Marinette, under the direction of Mrs. Hilary Oskey, perform a lively rendition of "Conga Line Christmas." With 75 talented members, they bring the festive spirit to life, extending warm wishes for a happy holiday season.
Cub Scout Pack 3135
Pack 3135 Cub Scouts bring festive cheer to the parade, celebrating their achievements, from Pinewood Derby cars to family campouts. With over 40 members, they're known for their community spirit and even won Best Popcorn Sales in their district.
Appleton Axe Throwing/SOAR Fox Cities
Appleton Axe Throwing and SOAR Fox Cities join together to spread "Togetherness and Love" this holiday season. The float, featuring festive lights and holiday scenes, showcases the spirit of community as people from all walks of life share in the joy of Christmas.
Fox Valley Lutheran High School Marching Band
The Fox Valley Lutheran Marching Band and Color Guard, featuring 65 talented musicians, bring festive cheer to the parade. Many of these musicians are also involved with the Lutheran Vanguard of Wisconsin, showcasing their passion for music and dedication to the holiday spirit
St. Paul Lutheran Ministries
St. Paul Lutheran Ministries is sharing their Christmas spirit by reminding everyone of the TRUE meaning of Christmas. They invite you to celebrate the birth of Jesus and BELIEVE the message of the Christmas angel that a Savior has been born for you. The float includes children from St. Paul's Early Childhood Center, as well as students from kindergarten through 8th grade, along with teachers and parents. Let's join them in celebrating the season with joy and faith!
Making Spirits Bright
Making Spirits Bright is a stunning drive-through holiday light show at Evergreen Park in Sheboygan, now in its 13th year of lighting up the season. With over 700,000 synchronized lights set to festive music, it is one of the top holiday light displays in the country, winning multiple awards. The park is open nightly from November 29th to December 31st (except Christmas Eve) from 5 to 9 PM. Don't miss the chance to experience this dazzling holiday tradition!
Menasha St. Mary Catholic High School Marching Band
The Zephyrs Marching Band, made up of students in grades 9 through 12 and directed by Mrs. Pamela Barnhill, is spreading holiday cheer with Christmas music as they march through the parade. St. Mary Catholic Schools, serving the Neenah-Menasha area and surrounding communities, partners with families, churches, and the community to inspire students to lead meaningful lives and develop their talents. The band, 50 members strong, is joined by the dance team as well, bringing extra energy and joy to the festivities!
ABT Foundation Solutions
Specializing in fixing bad basements the right way, they ensure your foundation is solid and secure. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made them a trusted name in the area. Whether it's waterproofing, foundation repair, or basement finishing, they've got you covered!
The Family Radio Network, Inc.
The Family Radio Network is bringing their "Biggest Family Room in Wisconsin" to the streets of Appleton to celebrate The Music and Magic of Christmas! Tune in throughout the holiday season to enjoy uplifting Christmas music that offers hope, strength, and encouragement. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas from 91.9FM, The Family!
Menasha High School Bluejay Brigade Marching Band & Varsity Cheer Team
Menasha High School's Bluejay Brigade, under the direction of Jenny Leist, is ready to bring some festive cheer to the streets! The performance is led by Drum Major Odin Prusse, with Officer John Abrahamson from the Menasha SRO Squad Car guiding the way. Joining the fun are the Menasha Co-Ed Cheer Team, coached by Erin Gordon, and the Menasha High School Color Guard, coordinated by Jenny Leist. The band will perform holiday favorites, including "Hard Rockin' Holiday" arranged by Tim Galyen and "Holiday Road" arranged by Tom Wallace. Happy Holidays and Go Bluejays!
Duke FM-Midwest Communications
Duke FM truly loves the holidays, and as you hear those classic country Christmas tunes playing from the Duke truck, we hope it takes you back to a simpler time—when holiday decorations, brightly wrapped presents, and the twinkling lights on the tree filled us with pure excitement as kids. There was something special about hearing those timeless Christmas classics on the radio, the crackling warmth of a cozy fire, and the simple joy of the season that could make anyone feel festive. From all of us at Duke FM, we wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, as we come together to celebrate the magic of the season on the Avenue of Christmas Spirits!
Henschel Milk Service
Representing the Dairy Industry, Henschel Milk Service would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! Our hardworking dairy farmers dedicate themselves year-round to providing fresh, nutritious milk and dairy products that nourish our communities. This holiday season, we celebrate the spirit of giving and the joy of family gatherings around the table—moments often made possible by the contributions of our local dairy industry. We hope your holidays are filled with warmth, cheer, and the joy of togetherness. Thank you for your continued support of Henschel Milk Service and our local farms. We wish you a season of blessings and a bright year ahead!
Hortonville High School Band
The Hortonville High School Polar Bear Marching Band, under the direction of Breanna Wozniczka and John Leja, is proud to represent the vibrant communities of Hortonville, Greenville, Stephensville, Center, Grand Chute, Dale, Ellington, Liberty, Mackville, and Hortonia. For 25 consecutive years, the Hortonville Area School District has earned recognition as one of the 'Best Communities for Music Education' by the NAMM Foundation, a testament to the dedication of our students, teachers, and community. Tonight, the band is celebrating Appleton's "Avenue of Angels" with a festive selection of holiday classics, including Angels We Have Heard on High, Deck the Halls, and Joy to the World. We invite you to sit back and enjoy this joyful performance as we usher in the holiday season!
Life Promotions
Here comes an inspiring float from Life Promotions, featuring a simple yet deeply meaningful nativity scene, beautifully accompanied by the uplifting sounds of Matthew West's We Need Christmas album. The theme, Sharing Life Together, comes to life as families and friends walk alongside the float, holding signs that share heartfelt messages of love, joy, peace, and hope. Life Promotions extends warm wishes for joy and peace to all this season and looks forward to continuing the spirit of Sharing Life Together in the year ahead.
Lamers Bus Lines
Lamers Bus Lines proudly showcases their classic trolley bus, beautifully decked out with festive holiday decorations. For 80 years, Lamers has been a trusted part of our community, safely transporting students to school each day. As they roll down the parade route, let's give a big salute to their dedicated drivers and the countless families they've served for generations. Lamers Bus Lines: Connecting communities, spreading holiday cheer, and helping to keep the magic of the season alive!
Oshkosh West High School Band
Oshkosh West High School Band, composed of over 200 talented students across four concert bands. They proudly carry on the rich tradition of excellence established by generations of Oshkosh High and Oshkosh West band members. Under the direction of Mr. Dan Singer, Mr. Brian Wilson, and student teacher Mr. Sam Johnson, tonight they will perform God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, a special arrangement created for the Oshkosh West Bands by Brian Wilson and J. Edgerton. Sit back and enjoy this beautiful performance!
Renewal by Anderson
Get ready to be transported into a magical winter wonderland brought to you by Renewal By Andersen! This enchanting float transforms a flatbed trailer into a charming, snow-dusted street scene straight out of a holiday storybook. Picture festive trees twinkling with lights, classic lampposts casting a warm glow, candy canes adding a sweet touch, and an adorable snowman family that's sure to bring smiles to everyone. At the heart of it all stands a stunning Christmas tree, beautifully decorated and radiating the joy and spirit of the season. This float truly captures the magic and wonder of the holidays, all thanks to Renewal By Andersen!
Van Zeeland Nursery & Landscape
Next up, Van Zeeland Nursery & Landscape brings us a festive float featuring Santa's hardworking elves, busily creating a beautiful landscape! Watch as these cheerful elves plant vibrant flowers and trees and even build a charming stone wall, all while bringing a touch of holiday magic to life. Their message this year: "Planting Joy, One Tree at a Time!" Van Zeeland Nursery & Landscape wishes you a season filled with greenery, cheer, and the beauty of nature!
UW-Oshkosh Titan Thunder Marching Band
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Titan Thunder Marching Band was founded in 2022 to support Titan athletics and bring energy to university and regional events. In addition to their high-step pregame show, the band performs a variety of halftime music and intricate drills at each home football game, offering entertainment and performance opportunities for all of their members. Students take on leadership roles in instruction, logistics, recruiting, and enhancing the overall member experience, living out their core values of purpose, pride, power, and, of course, THUNDER! This holiday season, the Titan Thunder Band is marching by to spread extra cheer—enjoy the festive sounds and holiday spirit they bring to the parade!
L&S Electric
L & S Electric, Inc., a third-generation family business, has been powering industries since the 1950s. From repairing electric motors to servicing over 10,000 pieces of equipment annually, their nationwide team ensures the holiday cheer keeps going. As a leader in power solutions, they remain committed to quality and legendary service. Wishing you a bright and joyful holiday season!
Alliance Industries
Alliance Industries brings a spooktacular twist to the season with the iconic Ecto-1 and their very own Ghostbusters team! This year, they're capturing mischievous Christmas characters and transforming them into shining angels to spread holiday cheer all along College Avenue. Get ready to cheer for Alliance Industries as they work their holiday magic, mixing a little ghostly fun with plenty of festive spirit!
Appleton North High School Marching Band
The Appleton North Lightning Marching Band, directed by Ms. Amanda Balane and led by drum majors Rhianna Amador, Kendall Berndt, and Will Clothier, is made up of 125 talented musicians from all grade levels. This year, the band is excited to perform We Are Santa's Elves, arranged by Jim Thaldorf, from the beloved 1964 stop-motion classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Following the band, you'll see Appleton North's performance team, led by Kelsey Ruegger, adding even more festive energy to the celebration!
Fox Valley Ballooning
The Fox Valley Ballooning parade entry is a cherished tradition for both pilots and spectators alike! Featuring 13 talented hot air balloon pilots from the Fox Valley, along with pilots from across the state and beyond, this spectacular entry brings a burst of color and joy to the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade. Fox Valley Ballooning is thrilled to be part of this festive celebration, helping to warm the hearts of the thousands of spectators lining the avenue. It's always a magical sight to see these vibrant balloons floating down the route, spreading holiday cheer and wonder!
FWD Seagrave
Introducing the antique 1957 Seagrave tractor-drawn aerial fire truck, a true piece of history that proudly served the city of Santa Ana, California, for many years. This stunning truck is beautifully adorned with approximately 6,000 twinkling Christmas lights and a variety of lighted displays, creating a dazzling festive spectacle. It also features a sound system playing vintage Christmas music, adding to the charm and holiday spirit. This special parade entry is brought to you by the FWD-Seagrave Vehicle Museum and its dedicated team of volunteers, who continue to preserve this piece of history for all to enjoy.
Santa and Mrs. Claus
The moment we've all been waiting for—Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus spreading holiday cheer as they wave to everyone and enjoy the magic of the season!
Pierce Manufacturing
Following Santa and Mrs. Claus, we have Pierce Manufacturing, proudly based in Appleton since 1913 and known for delivering innovative fire trucks to communities around the world. Also featured is the Oshkosh Airport Products Striker, a cutting-edge aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle that serves airports in over 100 countries. Both of these incredible vehicles are a testament to the world-class engineering and craftsmanship that make our region a leader in safety and innovation.