This year marks the 100th anniversary of the McLean Day festival’s existence. A number of enhancements will give the beloved festival a “facelift,” while still maintaining the hometown feel and fun for which it has come to be known.
The first festival of its kind to be held in Fairfax County, McLean Day started in 1915 as a fundraiser for Franklin Sherman School. McLean Day 2015 will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, at Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road. Produced by the McLean Community Center (MCC), the event is free and open to the public.
The first “McLean Day” was sponsored by the McLean School and Civic League, with the support of the McLean Volunteer Fire Department. It was held in an open field adjacent to the school. The purpose of the event was to raise funds for various school and community projects. The first festival went on for several weeks, unlike the one-day festival held today.
In the early years, the festival was held on the Saturday preceding the Democratic Primary in August, which made it as popular with political candidates seeking office as it was with the local residents. Attractions included carnival games, a baby show, dancing, performances and a lot of homemade refreshments. A favored event was the “jousting” tournament. Men, dressed as knights from the Middle Ages, rode horses at full gallop while attempting to place a lance through a tiny ring. The winner had the privilege of crowning his “lady” “Queen of Love and Beauty.”
While much has changed over the years, McLean Day’s success is still due to the support of the community. Many McLean-based, civic organizations participate at some level every year, such as McLean American Legion, Post 270, McLean Historical Society, Chesterbrook Residences and the McLean Rotary Club.
After MCC was established in 1975, the event was held at the Center. In 1989, after teaming up with many community groups, including the McLean Business and Professional organization (now the Greater McLean Chamber of Commerce), the Center moved McLean Day to its current location, Lewinsville Park, to increase the attraction and interest in the community. Thankfully, today McLean Day is as vital, strong and well-loved as it has ever been.
The festival will be held rain or shine. For more information, contact the Center at 703-790-0123, TTY: 711, or visit: www.mcleancenter.org/special-events.