Storm Lake’s Star Spangled Spectacular has added two familiar faces to its leadership team for the 2026 celebration.
Event organizers announced yesterday that Matt and Katie Brostad will serve as Co‑Commodores, joining Tyler and Deidre Aube, who were previously named Commodores for this year’s Independence Day festivities.
The Spectacular committee says the Brostads were chosen for their long‑standing commitment to service and community involvement. The Aubes say the couple consistently steps up—whether it’s coaching youth sports, volunteering, or supporting local organizations—and that their leadership style reflects the spirit of the event.
For Matt and Katie, the role is an opportunity to help shape a celebration that draws thousands of visitors to Storm Lake every July 3 and 4. They say they’re looking forward to working with what they describe as a strong team of community leaders to deliver a memorable holiday weekend.
They highlighted many of the traditional events they’re excited to help host—from the Big Parade and fireworks to concerts, arts and crafts vendors, the Ride/Run, and the chance to meet new people as they help shuttle guests around the parks. They say the parade has always been a standout for their family.
Matt grew up in Storm Lake, and Katie is originally from Fonda. They’re raising three daughters—Nora, Clare, and Emma—who attend Storm Lake Public Schools and stay active in a variety of activities.
Both parents are deeply woven into the community.
Matt serves as Operations and Process Improvement Director at United Community Health Center and sits on the Staff Parish Relations Committee at United Methodist Church. He has also supported Buena Vista University’s Community Campaign and has assisted with Star Spangled Spectacular fundraising efforts for several years.
Katie works as an Occupational Therapist at Buena Vista Regional Medical Center. She serves on the Memorial Committee at United Methodist Church and on BVRMC’s Cares for Kids Committee. Together, the couple coaches their daughters in multiple sports and stays active in youth programming.
The Brostads say they’re especially excited to partner with their close friends, the Aubes, as they prepare for this year’s celebration.
Organizers are already encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to register for the Big Parade by June 20. Parade registration is free and available at starspangledspectacular.net, where the event is also accepting applications from art vendors, food vendors, nonprofits, for‑profits, food trucks, and others.
A full schedule of events will be posted online as the holiday approaches.
