McLean Farmers Market Returns For 2026 Season At Lewinsville Park

MCLEAN, VA — The McLean Farmers Market began its 2026 season Friday morning at Lewinsville Park, marking the start of a schedule that runs every Friday through Oct. 30.

The market, located at 1659 Chain Bridge Road, operates from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. while the season is active. The market will be closed May 15 for McLean Day.

Several new safety and community measures have been introduced for the current season, according to Caroline Hockenberry, farmers market coordinator for the Fairfax County Park Authority. She stated that safety is a priority, with tent weight requirements increased to 30 pounds per tent at all markets.

The county is also continuing its plastic-free initiative. Hockenberry said the program uses revenue from the plastic bag tax to provide compostable bags to all market vendors.

Additionally, the food scrap collection program has been expanded to all 10 county-run markets. Last season, the markets collectively gathered over 75 tons of food scraps.

Two new vendors have set up tables at the McLean Farmers Market this season. Siesta Gozleme specializes in traditional Turkish and Kurdish cuisine and Sicilian Mom, which sells handcrafted Sicilian aracini — stuffed rice balls — made entirely from scratch. A full list of market vendors can be found on the Park Authority website.

Beyond agriculture, the Park Authority is utilizing market space for county resources. Hockenberry noted that agencies such as the Fairfax Area Agency on Aging and local libraries are invited to share information regarding caregiving and summer reading programs. Historic sites and parks also provide activities for children.

To ensure the integrity of the market’s "producer-only" requirement, Park Authority staff visited every participating farm to verify that vendors grow the items they sell. While the county does not have a formal organic requirement, Hockenberry noted that vendors use sustainable practices, including integrated pest management, natural fertilizers, and crop rotation.

"Even if they aren't categorically certified organic, they are using good practices," Hockenberry said, adding that many small family farms forgo the certification due to the administrative record-keeping required.

For residents using SNAP EBT benefits, the Park Authority offers a matching program for fruits and vegetables. Hockenberry said the county currently matches up to $40 in benefits weekly at five different markets, with plans to expand the service.

Live music is also scheduled for the markets, though Hockenberry noted performances begin after 9 a.m. to allow for a music-free shopping hour. Musicians must be approved for family-friendly content and are permitted to busk for tips only.

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