Experience an Evening of Illuminations & Fireworks
Join Mount Vernon for a family-friendly celebration of the holiday season with an enchanted evening of Christmas Illuminations.
Illuminated historic spaces throughout the estate create a festive atmosphere that delights guests of all ages.
Watch a Nighttime Fireworks Show
Watch a spectacular holiday fireworks show, choreographed to music, over the Potomac River. The fireworks program begins at approximately 8 p.m.
Tour the Reopened First & Second Floors of Washington's Mansion
Step inside George Washington’s home and experience the newly restored Mansion illuminated in the evening. The Washingtons’ Bedchamber has been transformed with new wallpaper, reproduction furniture, and linens.
Meet George & Martha Washington
Join George and Martha Washington inside the Interpretive Center for a meet-and-greet. Then hear George Washington's special holiday remarks at the Piazza as he kicks off the fireworks extravaganza.
Shop an Artisan Winter Market
Meet artisan sutlers who produce hand-crafted 18th-century wares, available for purchase at the Winter Market.
- Phil The Glassblower
- River Rat Pottery
- Samson Historical
- Sullivan Press
- Tasha's Own
- Ver Sacrum
Savor the Season with S'mores & Treats
Warm up with food, including s'mores kits and holiday drinks from the Mount Vernon Food Truck.
Enjoy Fresh-Baked Gingerbread
Meet our resident baker Justin Cherry and take home gingerbread crafted with a replica of the 18th-century mold used by Christopher Ludwick, the Continental Army’s Superintendent of Bakers during the Revolutionary War.
Discover 18th-Century Holiday Traditions
Enjoy cheerful Christmas caroling on the 12-acre field.
Play games in a tavern-style tent on the west end of the bowling green.
Dance to 18th-century music in the greenhouse (last dance called at 7:45 p.m.).
Meet Aladdin the Camel
Meet our holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel, continuing the tradition of George Washington bringing a camel to Mount Vernon in 1787.
Talk to Revolutionary War Soldiers
View an 18th-century winter encampment and learn about the life of Revolutionary soldiers on the bowling green.
Explore a Straw Bale Maze
Wind through a straw bale kids' maze filled with Christmas lights.
Visit the Museum
Discover the history of Mount Vernon and its landscape with our exhibit, Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon.
Seating & Safety Information
Lawn Seating
Guests are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on the east lawn, but please be courteous to those around you. Oversize chairs, large strollers, stroller wagons, tables, tents, carts, and coolers are not permitted. Seating is not provided.
Bag Inspections
Please note that all guests must go through bag inspections upon entrance. Be aware of the potential long line for entry at the beginning of the event, and help the line move faster by packing lightly.
Accessibility
Christmas Illuminations is an outdoor experience at night. Be prepared for low temperatures, varying light levels, and uneven walkways.
The event also includes moving lights, amplified music, and musket-firing demonstrations, which can be heard throughout the evening in the historic area.
Pet Policy
Please note: While we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.
