Welcome to the 67th McCleary Bear Festival

Celebrating together since 1959

Since 1959, the McCleary Bear Festival has been an important part of the small town of McCleary, WA. Organized by a non-profit group of volunteers this community event features a grand parade, family entertainment, a softball tournament, car show, soapbox derby, and of course our famous Bear Festival stew. The McCleary Bear Festival welcomes visitors from all over the country to enjoy the fun of an old fashioned, small town festival.

Schedule

Friday

1 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Beer Garden, VFW Post 5564

1 p.m. t0 7 p.m.- Vendors in the park & VFW

2 p.m. to 6 p.m.- Free day Friday in Kid Zone

4:30 to 5:30 p.m. – Steel Drum Party with Ian Dobson, Beerbower Park

6 p.m. National Anthem Sung by Monica Reeves

6:15 p.m. King Aidens first Pitch!

6:30 p.m. - Guns vs. Hoses Baseball Game, Beerbower Park

Saturday

7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. –Breakfast, McCleary Museum

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Kids Zone

10 a.m. to 7 p.m.- Vendors in the Park & VFW

12 p.m. – McCleary Bear Festival Parade

Bear Festival Stew

1 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Beer Garden, VFW Post 5564

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Strawberry Shortcake Social, McCleary Museum

Sunday

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Beer Garden, VFW Post 5564

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.- Vendors in the Park & VFW

12 to 4 p.m. – Kids Zone, Beerbower Park

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Car show

Grand Parade

Grab a chair and wave at all the floats, bands, and parade participants.

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Bear Festival Stew

This is one case where too many chefs don’t spoil the stew, for it takes about 40+ people to handle the cooking chores to make the stew just right.

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Kid Zone

Tons of activities geared directly to kids and family interactions.

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Music in the Park

Hang out by the stage for great music, comedy, and other entertainers.

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Softball Tournament

Gather up your friends or co-workers and join in on the softball tournament. Show us your stuff!

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Car Show

Browse through the beautiful collection of antique and restored classic cars.

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Soap Box Derby

Can you beat the other box cars? Winners get your very own trophy.

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Food and Craft Vendors

Local crafters abound! Come and grab that perfect gift for that special someone or even for yourself. Support our local businesses and find your new favorite item and bite to eat.

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Grand Marshal 2024

66th Community Grand Marshal

CONGRATULATIONS TO APRIL WRIGHT!

True Support

We seek out sponsorships from companies and organizations throughout our community. Sharing our vision of building a community-inspired, creative festival, our sponsors play a crucial part in making this event a reality. If you want to join our growing list of sponsors, or learn more about who they are, contact us today.

CLICK HERE TO BE A 2026 SPONSOR!!