Once Upon a Main Street 2025

The Union Bank Company is proud to continue our partnership with Go Ottawa, an organization dedicated to enhancing the way we live, work, and experience our community. As a true community bank, our commitment extends far beyond banking — it’s about investing in the people, events, and organizations that make our community a place we’re proud to call home.

The Union Bank Tree at 2024 Once Upon a Main Street

Last year was pretty cold, but we loved decorating our tree as part of the inaugural event!

This holiday season, we’re thrilled to once again be the Key Sponsor of Go Ottawa’s “Once Upon a Main Street” celebration — a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience that transforms downtown Ottawa into a storybook of festive wonder. This event highlights the power of the arts in bringing people together and enriching our communities culturally, educationally, and economically.

This year’s “Once Upon a Main Street” will feature Richard Paul Evans’ “The Christmas Candle.” Families can stroll through town and enjoy beautifully decorated trees, creative window displays, and large-scale art installations designed by our local elementary students in partnership with local fabricators. Our window art this year will also by led by a local, talented student from OG. Each stop along the trail showcases the creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship that make Ottawa truly special.

Event Kickoff: December 4th

We’ll “flip the switch” and officially light up the trail following the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Welcome Santa Parade. Santa will lead the group to our tree lot directly following the parade, for a memorable start for our holiday season. The opening evening will be filled with festive fun, including warm hot chocolate, popcorn, treats, carolers and more. The story book trail will remain open for visitors to enjoy through January 9th — giving everyone plenty of time to experience the magic.

2024 Window Art

Last year’s trail told the story of “The Night Before Christmas.” Each year, the story will change encouraging visitors to come see the new window art!

Don’t Miss the 3rd Annual Ottawa Light Up Contest!

After exploring Once Upon a Main Street, grab a map at the Christmas tree lot and take a drive to see the dazzling home displays across town. It’s the perfect way to round out a night of community, creativity, and Christmas spirit.

2023’s Ottawa Light Up Contest Winner

At The Union Bank Company, we’re honored to play a part in traditions like this — moments that bring neighbors together and celebrate what makes Ottawa shine. We look forward to seeing families, friends, and visitors enjoy this event and make lasting holiday memories.

A heartfelt thank-you to all our community partners who help make “Once Upon a Main Street” possible:

• The Village of Ottawa

• The Union Bank Company

• The Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce

• Ottawa Elementary and JB Custom Concepts (Tree lot display)

• Sts. Peter & Paul School and Kuhlman Builders (Rex display)

• Glandorf Elementary and Altimate Outdoor (Alley display)

• Clear Sight Window Cleaning

• Center Stage Dance Academy

• Our Tree Lot Sponsors

• Our Main Street businesses

• Ottawa-Glandorf Key Club

• Grace Huber

Together, we’re lighting up the holidays — and our community — one story at a time.