A new holiday tradition in Wild Rose

Community organizations and businesses lit the streets for a new holiday parade tradition, which ended with a visit from the iconic Santa Clause. Photo by Misty Holzman

Jennifer and Becky Popek, owners of True Harvest, welcome cookie walkers in Wild Rose. They are the fourth generation of the family farm and are raising grains for their true harvest bourbon. Photo by Char Stratton, Argus Correspondent

Helen Cox hands out cookies for the Wild Rose Historical Society. Photo by Char Stratton, Argus Correspondent

Bailey Holzman and ___ dressed as elves while volunteering for the holiday activities in Wild Rose. Photo by Misty Holzman

Wild Rose cheerleaders wore their festive gear while walking through the first annual Wild Rose Christmas Parade. Photo by Misty Holzman

Gifts were handed out to over 340 Waushara County children throughout Dec. 6 and 7. Photo by Misty Holzman

___ shows off his Monopoly Junior game he received during the Wish Upon a Toy distribution. Photo by Misty Holzman

Posted Tuesday, December 9, 2025 3:54 pm

The organizers of the First Annual Cookie Walk and Christmas Parade in Wild Rose shared a message following their new holiday tradition.

“Thank you just never seems to be the right word. But in this case, that's all I can come up with. Thank you to those that participated in the First Annual Cookie Walk and Christmas Parade in Wild Rose. Huge thank you to the 28 businesses that made and handed out Christmas cookies for all 100 participants to enjoy. Thank you to the businesses and groups who braved the cold and participated in the parade.

The spirit of Christmas was brought to life this last weekend in Wild Rose. The villagers certainly showed their holiday spirit during the festivities.

We were able to wrap up the weekend (no pun intended) by handing out gifts to over 340 kids from Waushara County Saturday evening and all day Sunday. Thank you to all of the individuals and businesses who donated to the cause. Without all of you, this event wouldn't be possible. From all of us behind the scenes at Wish Upon A Toy, Thank you!

Be on the lookout for 2026 event information or reach out to us at wishuponatoy.wildrose@gmail.com or 715-513-0222.”