Leesburg, VA (December 16, 2025) – Destiny School of the Arts is the winner of this year’s best float at the annual Christmas and Holiday Parade on December 13. 

According to Destiny’s Creative Director Josué Santos, the theme for Destiny’s school year is “Make Things Better, Make Things Brighter.” The vintage church and old lampposts featured on the float were a visual reminder of that theme, he said.

The design of the float started with a hand sketch followed by the use of AI to create a rendering of the project. Students, teachers, parents, staff, and community supporters put in over 100 hours of labor to bring the float’s design to life, according to Santos.

On the float, Destiny had nine student vocalists and three student musicians. Joining them walking alongside the float were Head of School Jennifer Wigfield, directors, teachers, parents, students, and friends. The costumes worn by the students were a nod to the recently-formed Destiny band.

“So much love and excellence went into this project, from its construction to the development of our band. I think the amazing results reflect, on some level, the heart and magic of our school. We couldn’t be prouder or more grateful for the experience. Meeting the Mayor and getting our pictures taken with the trophy was incredible. And the best part was seeing the pure joy in the eyes of our kids. That's priceless,” Santos said.

Destiny School of the Arts will have its name engraved on the “Holiday in Lights” trophy, which will be on display at Town Hall. This annual competition is sponsored by Loudoun Now.

Media Contact:
Kara Rodriguez, Public Information Officer
pio@leesburgva.gov
703-669-1425