Reston Association's Winterfest is adding a "Polar Play Park" with ice carvings, snowmaking and a DJ this year. The holiday festival returns to Brown's Chapel Park for a fourth year Dec. 3–5.

The new attraction is a direct response to families asking for more children's activities, RA spokesperson Cara O'Donnell told FFXnow.

"The play park will be introduced this year as a result from community feedback expressing [a desire for] additional activities for children," O'Donnell said by email. She added that a DJ and snowmaking will appear at different times each evening in the play park, weather permitting.

The Polar Play Park will also feature interactive ice games, according to RA.

Last year's festival drew more than 10,000 people over three days, and organizers expect even larger crowds at the park at 1525 Brown's Chapel Road. Gates open each night from 5 to 9 p.m.

The three-night event, first held in 2023, brings back its signature half-mile "Light Up the Park" walk through thousands of holiday lights, a Vendor Village for shopping, free photos with Santa Claus and a Grinch's Village. Fire pits with marshmallows for roasting return as well.

Laura Kowalski, RA's director of recreation services, called Winterfest one of Reston's favorite holiday traditions in a press release, noting it brings together neighbors and families each season.

Food trucks and the Enchanted Forest

Eight food trucks are confirmed for the festival, according to O'Donnell: Big Cheese, Caffeine Machine, Himalayan Soul Foods, Kay's Mini Doughnuts, Lupita's Taqueria, Maryland Brat & Butcher Co, Travelin' Tom's Coffee, and Two Smooth Dudes.

The Enchanted Forest returns with decorated trees sponsored by local businesses, community groups and families. The nonprofit Friends of Reston is supporting the program. After the festival ends, all the trees will be donated to Reston families in need.

Individuals and organizations can sign up online to sponsor a tree.

Tickets

Tickets went on sale Oct. 15 at reston.org/winterfest. Admission is free for RA members, recreation passholders and children 2 and younger. Non-member adults pay $20, and children ages 3–17 pay $10. Everyone needs a ticket to enter.

Winterfest runs Thursday, Dec. 3, through Saturday, Dec. 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. each night at Brown's Chapel Park.