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Oshkosh Celbration of Lights
Our Mission
The Celebration of Lights mission is to provide an affordable family holiday light show for the Oshkosh Community and surrounding areas. With over one million twinkling holiday lights, we are “Bringing Smiles to Thousands!” Each year we give back to many charities within the Oshkosh Community.
EVENT PROCEEDS GO TO SUPPORT (click name to visit their website for more information, if you would like to donate):
2025
BOARD OF DIRECTORS/
OFFICERS
President– Norman Reichenberger
Vice-President– Looking for Someone
Treasurer– Ann Rumlow
Secretary– Jodi Jensema
BOARD MEMBERS
Nancy Reichenberger
Wendy Thompson
Jeremy Thompson
Jerry Tiedje
Bill Christianson
Chris Duprey
2025
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The Friends of Oshkosh Parks, Inc. dba Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is a non-profit organization with committee members staffed, and volunteers working year-round. We are our own entity, and not part of any other businesses; therefore, your support helps us keep the lights on!
- Alina Peterson
- Amy Albright
- Ann Rumlow
- Avery Erdman
- Bill Christianson
- Bob Serwas
- Brenda Reichenberger
- Cathy Smith
- Chris Duprey
- Chris Stinemates
- Darren Rohlwing
- George Londos
- Hal Schulz
- Leanne Bloedaw
- Jason Kramer
- Jeremy Thompson
- Jerry Tiedje
- Jodi Jensema
- Jon Stenerson
- Kevin Reichenberger
- Meghan Shady
- Mike Deaton
- Mike Stinemates
- Nancy Reichenberger
- Norm Reichenberger
- Paul Laurent
- Ralph Harrison
- Rick Helms
- Theresa Fehring
- Vicki Rabe-Harrison
- Wendy Thompson
Are you interested in becoming an Oshkosh COL Committee Member? We could use your help! Email Us
How the Tradition Began
our history
Through the efforts of our volunteers, sponsors and our community, this bright idea, because of our joint efforts, is now one of the largest, and most dazzling light show in the Midwest! Let’s continue to improve and keep this Oshkosh Holiday Tradition shining bright!
The Oshkosh Celebration of Lights was a dream of Tom Stephany, former Oshkosh Parks Dept. Director
Tom saw a holiday lights display in Texas, that inspired him to create one in Oshkosh. As a member of Oshkosh Rotary Southwest, Tom recruited an enthusiastic and energetic group of fellow Rotarians to help him make his vision a reality. The original group consisted of Karen Fredrick, Bob Hernke, Craig Burnett, Wendy Hielsberg, Jenny Biese and Bob Heinz. Through this project Tom wanted to create a partnership between the Celebration of Lights and the Parks Department. Over the years, both groups have formed a partnership that has benefited from COL donating funds to upgrade the electrical infrastructure, at Menominee Park, which also helps other festivals and events that are held there.
Tom Stephany passed away on August 25, 2011. A plaque is displayed in the park and in addition, The Tom Stephany Bridge of Lights, is to honor the man who loved the Oshkosh Parks and worked tirelessly to create an event that brought the community together.
In Loving Memory of Leon Thompson
SPECIAL DEDICATION
Be the reason someone smiles today. – Leon
Leon’s heart for service extended into the community. He brought joy to thousands each year through his leadership with Oshkosh’s Celebration of Lights, working behind the scenes to make holiday magic happen. It was yet another way he gave of himself, living out his belief in generosity and connection.
Leon was amazing in so many ways and his dedication will never be forgotten! Leon will be missed by so many.