Mission Statement

The Festival of Lights Parade is a nonprofit community celebration that lights up Downtown Colorado Springs each December. Made possible by local donations, volunteers, and sponsors, the Parade brings the spirit of the holidays to life for tens of thousands each year. Your support keeps the tradition glowing.

Staff

Kevin Leonardo

Kevin Leonardo assumed the position of Executive Director for the Festival of Lights in May 2022. With a rich background in the sports and entertainment industry spanning over 20 years, Kevin is an experienced event visionary. Throughout his career, he has successfully curated meaningful experiences and fostered enduring relationships, particularly within Olympic Sports, broadcast television, and live entertainment events. Kevin has held various roles in numerous high-profile events, bringing a wealth of knowledge in both operational and production aspects.

As long-time residents of Colorado Springs for 20 years, Kevin and his wife Natascha, who works as an educator in the Manitou Springs School District, reside on the west side of Colorado Springs with their four young children.

Abragail Arnold

Abragail Arnold is a proud board member of the Festival of Lights Parade and leads sponsorship efforts to help keep this holiday tradition shining bright. Christmas has always been one of her favorite times of year, and being part of the team that brings that magic to life for the community is something she truly loves. Abby has a background in communications and event marketing, but what she enjoys most is building connections and seeing the joy on people’s faces when the parade lights up downtown. She lives in Colorado Springs with her husband, Travis, and their two Boston Terriers — Dexter and Ellie — who keep life fun and full of love (and a little bit of chaos).

Board of Directors

The Festival of Lights Board of Directors is a passionate group of volunteers representing many facets of our community. These individuals dedicate their time and talents because they believe in the mission of the Parade and the joy it brings to Downtown Colorado Springs each holiday season. Their leadership, creativity, and commitment make it possible for this beloved tradition to thrive year after year.

If you’re inspired by the magic of the Parade and are interested in becoming involved at the board level, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to Kevin Leonardo, Executive Director, for more information about board opportunities.

  • Joel Currey (Chair) – Director Stadium Operations – COS Switchbacks FC
  • Chris Davis (Vice Chair) – President & CEO, Terrace Leadership Development
  • Mindy Anderson (Treasurer) – Financial Controller, Switchbacks FC
  • Abby Kappel (Secretary) – Owner, Black Rose Consulting
  • Nicola Natale – USAF, Retired
  • Sheri Trumpfheller – UCCS, Retired
  • Kelly Hillick – Cumulus Radio Media Liaison
  • Tom Bruszewski – Band Director, Challenger Middle School
  • H.B. Pasley – CEPA, Growth Advocate
  • Nickie Frye – Owner, Good Eye