Ryan RobinsonPhoto Chief

Imagine choirs caroling, children frolicking and free hot cocoa to warm the soul. Add in a parade of brightly lit floats and a sprinkle of winter chill, and you have devised the Brooking’s Festival of Lights.

This year’s annual parade marked 15 years of celebration. By doing so, the sparkling floats entertained hundreds of winter wonderland admirers with the theme Discover the Magic. Many local businesses, churches and other organizations built floats to be judged on a number of categories to win one of four prizes. The winner of the Best Overall Entry, winning $100, went to Fred Lebahn Construction for their 100-foot train. All other prizes were worth $50. The prize of Best Use of Music went to Our Savior Lutheran Church and their nativity scene. The Best Use of Theme went to the Optimist Club with their float incorporating Santa and his reindeer during lift-off. The final prize of Best Use of Lighting went to the Brookings Area Transit Authority.

The Festival of Lights is an annual tradition that not only lends an opportunity to families to enjoy a night out celebrating the holiday season, but all winter wonderland admires alike.