Forsyth joins Christmas Coalition: Community leaders announce holiday lighting revival, student-built displays, exciting new traditions!

A spirit of excitement and collaboration swept through Forsyth City Hall recently as city leaders, community volunteers and coalition partners gathered to announce a major holiday partnership. Forsyth has officially joined the Branson Christmas Coalition a 501(c)(4) whose mission is to encourage, inspire and help implement Christmas light installations. The day officially launched a cornerstone community project that will bring dazzling new lights, student-designed displays, and a renewed sense of holiday pride to Main Street.

“As we go forward, I'm excited that we're going to spruce up the town and do some awesome things,” shared Forsyth Mayor Julie Aubuchon. 

Pictured from left to right: Forsyth Christmas Committee Chairperson Roxanne Amundsen, Christmas Coalition Executive Director Elizabeth Hughes, Forsyth Alderman Ward 1 Shawn Mathenia, Lake Taneycomo Elks Lodge Trustee Eugene Thomas (Photo submitted)

The announcement was marked by the formal presentation of Forsyth’s coalition membership check at city hall on July 25, a moment captured in a round of photos and heartfelt thanks all around.

“We are deeply honored to welcome the City of Forsyth into the Christmas Coalition family, embracing one another in the spirit of giving and joy,” said Elizabeth Hughes, Coalition executive director. “Forsyth truly exemplifies the heartbeat of Ozark Mountain Christmas.”

How it all began—a community coming together

“About six months ago, a committee was formed here in Forsyth to address the renewal of the lighting program,” explained Forsyth Christmas Committee Chairperson Roxanne Amundsen. “Shortly after, the City Council approved to be a partner in this program, and we were really, really excited to have the city behind us.”

The committee’s inspiration comes from a legacy of small-town holiday pride and the memories of community-driven lighting projects to celebrate Ozark Mountain Christmas stretching back to the early 1990s.

In 2024 the Elks Lodge formed a 501(c)(3) called Lake Taneycomo Elks Charitable Fund for the benefit of lodge operations and to be able to supplement the Elks foundations. Grants provided by the Elks Lodge have been supporting the community of Forsyth for over the last 45 years, in excess of $650,000. 

Empowering students: “Plugged In” grant creates shop class Christmas displays

One of the biggest highlights announced is a $2,500 “Plugged In” grant from White River Valley Electric Cooperative—funding that will put Forsyth high school FFA and shop students in the holiday spotlight! 

“We are tremendously grateful to White River Valley Electric Cooperative for seeing the value in the project we submitted,” said Hughes.

Students will design and fabricate stunning new snowflake pole-mounts for Main Street, giving them hands-on experience and leaving a legacy they’ll share with future generations.

“It's really exciting to see the chamber and the city and the school district partner together,” said Dr. Jeff Mingus, Forsyth R-3 Schools Superintendent. “You know, that's not common in other communities, and we're really lucky to have that.”

“The students will be able to see what they created and accomplished for many years down the road, so we're really excited about it,“ added Dr. Grant Boyer, Forsyth Assistant Superintendent.

Businesses and residents: Join the cheer—and see your name shine

The momentum doesn’t stop at city hall or school walls. Local leaders stressed the importance of inclusive community involvement and the economic boost from holiday tourism.

“Being part of the Coalition is going to bring people here, which in return will help our businesses and create more opportunities,” said Rose Backlin, Forsyth Chamber member/past president. “We want all of Forsyth’s businesses and families to take part—not just in the lights, but in building something bigger for our town.”

A new donation drive is launching now, with giving levels from “Elf” to “Santa Claus.” Ornament recognition on a dedicated “Donor Tree” will let everyone who contributes see their generosity on display for all to enjoy.

New goals and festive traditions—you’re invited!

The city’s fundraising goal is $40,000 for the project’s first year, which will cover a starter 14-foot tree and new pole decorations—with plenty of room to grow in future years. 

The city’s new coalition membership also puts Forsyth on the region’s “Virtual Christmas Trail Map,” inviting holiday visitors to follow the trail from Silver Dollar City to Forsyth and discover the magic along the way. 

They will also join the Coalition on reviving traditions too, announcing the return of a “synchronized lighting” event, where families, businesses and churches across the region will flip the switch at 7 p.m. on November 1, officially ushering in the Ozark Mountain Christmas season together. 

“This project is about more than lights—it’s about coming together, celebrating and showcasing Forsyth’s heart,” said Shawn Mathenia, Forsyth Ward I Alderman. “Fifty years from now, people will still be telling the story of how it started.”

Ready to help make Christmas brighter? Join us!

Want to help bring this vision to life? Businesses, families and volunteers interested in donating, participating or learning more can contact Rose Backlin at 417-331-6426 or Roxanne Amundsen at 417-818-7178. Checks can be made payable to the Lake Taneycomo Elks Charitable Funds and sent to P.O. Box 1450, Forsyth, MO 65653.

Let’s make this our brightest Christmas yet—join the celebration!