Wendi McLendon-Covey says she "goes hard" for the Holidays

Wendi McLendon-Covey says the holiday season is her favorite time of year, and she proudly admits she goes all out when it comes to decorating her home.

The actress, best known for her roles on St. Denis Medical and The Goldbergs, said her decorating season stretches for months, beginning in the fall and running straight through New Year’s Day. “I go hard,” McLendon-Covey said. “From September to Jan 1, that’s my season for decorating.”

She explained that once Halloween ends, the transition to Christmas is immediate and intentional. “I’ve scaled it to where when Halloween’s over, we’re going straight into Christmas,” she said, adding that the change mostly involves swapping out spooky décor for festive lights and ornaments.

“All I have to do is take down some pumpkins, change some lights, take down the witch hats, put up the sugar plum whatevers.”

McLendon-Covey is already well known for her elaborate Halloween decorations at what fans have affectionately dubbed “Covey Manor.”

She said she loves seeing people enjoy the displays and especially enjoys when fans dress up as characters she has played over the years, including roles from Reno 911! and The Goldbergs. Fans often send her photos of their costumes, which she finds both flattering and hilarious.

Beyond decorating, McLendon-Covey also spoke about another passion she shares with her husband, Greg Covey: rescuing cats. The couple frequently takes in animals that show up in their yard needing help. “When they show up in your yard and they need you, we can’t look away,” she said.

She shared that her love of animals began early, recalling that her first pet was a cat who had been rescued. Today, her cats remain an important part of her daily life and bring her comfort during the busy holiday season.

For McLendon-Covey, the holidays are about creating warmth and joy, whether that’s through decorations, traditions, or caring for animals in need. “It’s the best time of the year,” she said, noting that festive lights and familiar routines help make the darker winter months feel brighter.