Russian River RailBikes Shines Bright with Historic Victory at Calistoga’s Prestigious 2025 Lighted Tractor Parade: Know More About it

Published on December 12, 2025

In an exciting and heartwarming turn of events, Russian River RailBikes has claimed a spectacular victory at the renowned 2025 Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade. This triumph was not just a win; it was a grand celebration of history, community, and the festive spirit of the season. The parade, which is ranked as the fourth-best holiday parade in the United States by USA Today, saw Russian River RailBikes take home first place in the Pre-1960 Tractor category, showcasing their deep connection to local heritage and a passion for creating unforgettable holiday experiences.

A Historic Triumph in the Heart of Calistoga

The 2025 Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is an iconic event that draws thousands of spectators every year. Known for its vibrant display of lit-up tractors, festive floats, and holiday cheer, the parade brings together local businesses, families, and visitors to celebrate the magic of the season. This year, Russian River RailBikes made a lasting impression with a parade entry that was as historic as it was festive.

Their entry featured a beautifully restored 1939 Ford 9N tractor, a symbol of agricultural heritage that ties the region’s past to the present. The vintage tractor was paired with a creatively designed railbike float, bringing a blend of nostalgia and holiday magic to the streets of Calistoga. This powerful combination of history and creativity not only won the hearts of parade-goers but also impressed the judges, securing Russian River RailBikes a first-place finish in the Pre-1960 Tractor category.

The Story Behind the Tractor and Railbike Float

The 1939 Ford 9N tractor that served as the centerpiece of Russian River RailBikes’ entry was more than just a vehicle; it was a nod to the agricultural roots of the region. The Ford 9N, a legendary model from the late 1930s, was one of the first tractors to be produced with a fully integrated tractor and transmission system. This tractor played a pivotal role in shaping the farming industry in the United States, and its inclusion in the parade reminded spectators of the region’s rich agricultural history.

As the tractor rolled down the parade route, it was not just the vintage appeal that captured attention. The float attached to it was a festive masterpiece designed to reflect the upcoming holiday attraction from Russian River RailBikes, Pedal to the North Pole. With twinkling lights, garlands, and all the trimmings of a perfect Christmas celebration, the float was a visual delight. The theme captured the essence of the holiday season, bringing the charm of the Russian River and its surrounding landscape to life in a truly magical way.

Russian River RailBikes: Connecting the Past with the Present

Russian River RailBikes, a subsidiary of the Golden Gate Railroad Museum, has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s rich history while offering unique and thrilling experiences for locals and tourists alike. Their victory at the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is a testament to their commitment to bringing the past to life in a way that resonates with people today.

Manly Hyde, the Director of Russian River RailBikes, expressed immense pride and joy in the win. “Winning this category is such an honor for our team,” Hyde shared. “We love participating in local events, and showcasing our 1939 Ford 9N tractor was a perfect way to celebrate both local history and the magic of the holidays.” Hyde’s words reflect the passion and dedication that have become synonymous with Russian River RailBikes. By choosing to feature a vintage tractor, they not only paid tribute to the area’s agricultural roots but also drew attention to their unique railbike experience, which has become a beloved tradition in the region.

Pedal to the North Pole: The Ultimate Holiday Experience

This year’s victory at the Lighted Tractor Parade comes just in time for the highly anticipated holiday attraction, Pedal to the North Pole, hosted by Russian River RailBikes. Set to take place on December 19 and 20, 2025, this family-friendly event promises to be an unforgettable holiday experience. Families and visitors are invited to hop aboard a railbike for a magical ride along the historic North Western Pacific (NWP) Railroad line.

The event takes participants on a festive journey to the “North Pole,” where Santa Claus himself will be waiting to greet riders. But the magic doesn’t stop there. The evening will be filled with seasonal surprises, from hot chocolate to candy canes and freshly baked cookies, creating an atmosphere that is sure to delight both children and adults alike. With four departure times—5:00, 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 PM from Cloverdale, California—there’s no excuse not to join in on the festive fun.

The Pedal to the North Pole event is more than just a ride; it’s an experience that combines the beauty of the Russian River landscape with the joy and excitement of the holiday season. The event is designed to immerse participants in the magic of Christmas, all while showcasing the historic NWP rail line in a way that only Russian River RailBikes can.

The Impact on the Local Community and Economy

The success of Russian River RailBikes at the 2025 Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is a significant moment for both the company and the Calistoga community. The parade is a beloved event that brings thousands of people to the town every year, and Russian River RailBikes’ victory is a reminder of the power of local businesses to shape the cultural and economic landscape of the region.

By winning the Pre-1960 Tractor category, Russian River RailBikes has not only highlighted their deep connection to the community but also brought attention to the unique experiences they offer. The Pedal to the North Pole event, in particular, is expected to attract tourists and families from across the region, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy during the holiday season. Local hotels, restaurants, and shops will benefit from the influx of visitors, making the parade and holiday events a win-win for both businesses and residents.

The Power of Preserving History While Embracing Innovation

One of the most powerful aspects of Russian River RailBikes’ entry in the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade was how it managed to celebrate both history and innovation. The 1939 Ford 9N tractor was a symbol of the past, a tribute to the agricultural foundations that built the region. The railbike float, on the other hand, was a nod to the future, showcasing the innovative ways that Russian River RailBikes is preserving history while offering modern-day experiences that are both exciting and accessible to all.

This blend of old and new is a hallmark of Russian River RailBikes’ mission. By restoring and preserving historic tractors and railcars, they ensure that the stories and legacies of the past are not forgotten. At the same time, by creating engaging, family-friendly experiences, they are making those stories come alive in ways that captivate and inspire today’s generation. Their victory at the parade is a perfect example of how preserving the past can lead to exciting new opportunities for the future.

What’s Next for Russian River RailBikes?

Following their victory at the Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade, Russian River RailBikes is more determined than ever to continue providing exceptional experiences that connect people to the rich history and beauty of the region. As they prepare for the Pedal to the North Pole event, their focus remains on delivering an experience that is as magical as it is memorable.

The success of their parade entry and the popularity of their holiday event are just the beginning. In the coming years, Russian River RailBikes plans to expand its offerings, with new events and experiences that celebrate the rich history of the region while bringing people together to create lasting memories.

Russian River RailBikes’ victory at the 2025 Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is a testament to the power of community, history, and creativity. Their entry, featuring a restored 1939 Ford 9N tractor and a holiday-themed railbike float, won the Pre-1960 Tractor category in a spectacular fashion, delighting spectators and judges alike. The success of this entry is not just about winning; it is about preserving local history, celebrating the magic of the holiday season, and providing unique, unforgettable experiences for all who visit.

With their upcoming Pedal to the North Pole event and future plans to expand their offerings, Russian River RailBikes is undoubtedly a company to watch. As they continue to build on their legacy of connecting people to the past, they will undoubtedly create more magical moments for generations to come.