Downtown McLean's annual Winterfest Parade and Block Party returns Sunday, Dec. 6, with a new online pet photo contest and an earlier parade start time.

The McLean Revitalization Corporation (MRC), a volunteer-run nonprofit focused on downtown McLean, hosts the event each year with local businesses and community organizations, Patch first reported.

Barbara Zamora-Appel, the 2026 Winterfest chair, told Patch the earlier parade and new contest aim to broaden family participation. "Winterfest is truly a community effort," Zamora-Appel told Patch. "Our volunteers, sponsors, performers, businesses and community partners all play an important role in bringing this celebration to life."

What's new

The Winterfest Pet Contest is an online addition this year. Participants can submit photos of pets in costumes or creative surroundings at McLeanToday.org/Winterfest during November. Community members vote online for their favorites. Winners get prizes after the parade.

Specific submission and voting dates have not been posted.

Day-of schedule

Festivities begin at 12:30 p.m. at Langley Shopping Center with a block party and pre-parade entertainment. Local dance troupes and other performers, children's activities and booths from community organizations and businesses are planned. More than 54 food vendors will be on site, according to the MRC's event page.

Parade participants line up at 1 p.m. at Beverly and Old McLean Village Drive. The parade steps off at 1:30 p.m. at Fleetwood Road and Old Chain Bridge Road. Marching bands, floats, schools, nonprofits and local businesses will march. The parade wraps up at 2:45 p.m.

The block party continues through the afternoon with music, entertainment, arts and activities. Santa Claus is scheduled to arrive at 3 p.m. to meet children. The block party ends at 4:30 p.m.

How to get involved

Organizers are still accepting parade participants, sponsors and block party presenters. Volunteer roles are open to high school students and older. Positions include supporting check-in, the parade, the block party and vendors.

Residents can email [email protected] for information on volunteering or visit the Winterfest page at McLeanToday.org/Winterfest for event details.

Upcoming

  • November — Winterfest Pet Contest voting opens online at McLeanToday.org/Winterfest
  • Sunday, Dec. 6 — Winterfest Parade and Block Party, 12:30–4:30 p.m., Langley Shopping Center and downtown McLean