CUSB Bank in Ridgeway took home the prize for the Best Large Parade Float. (Driftless Multimedia photo by Denise Lana)
The Decorah Area Chamber has announced the winners of the 2023 Water Street Lighted Parade, which was held Friday, Dec. 8, in downtown Decorah. Two winners were selected as the best representatives in Large and Small Parade Float categories. This year’s theme was “Let it Snow!”
CUSB Bank in Ridgeway took home the prize for the Best Large Parade Float, thanks to the enormous inflatable Olaf the Snowman fixture in their parade float. Olaf was surrounded by bright, snowflake-shaped lights and a snow machine. Imitation snow gave the illusion of a beautiful, magical snow flurry. CUSB Bank employees also greeted the crowd in matching stocking hats.
Harman Realty defended their title as Best Small Parade Float. From handmade paper snowflakes on the side of the truck to icicle-shaped lights adorning the trailer, large snowflakes worn by the Harman Realty team, an inflatable snowman, snowman costume and an imitation snow machine – this float had it all. The float utilized several different types of lights, and Mr. Mike Harman was warmly lit by the glow of a fireplace tucked in the bed of the Harman Realty pickup.
The parade judges shared some honorable mentions for parade floats including Bremik Concrete Pumping for sheer number of lights and Shane Tieskoetter from Hearthside Fireplaces for his incredible holiday suit. Judges noted, “We were very appreciative of the amazing energy invested in the floats this year. Not only were lights used in unique ways, but there was fun music, live animals, fire, and some incredibly huge machinery. Warm weather brought out big crowds. We hope everyone enjoyed the parade as much as we did.”
Find lots of parade photos in the December 14 Public Opinion Newspaper.
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