For Immediate Release 1/1/2004

George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens offers a variety of special programs, in addition to daily Mansion tours, which are fun and educational for all. Please include the following in your calendar listings so your audience may enjoy all that Mount Vernon has to offer.

Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); www.mountvernon.org

Dates and times are subject to change. Please call media contact listed above to verify before publication. Hours of operation and general Mount Vernon information can be found on the last page.

Recommended attire: Mount Vernon is a 500-acre estate; 45 acres are open for touring. Tours of the Mansion are indoors, but visitors will spend a majority of their time outside. Walking shoes and appropriate seasonal attire are recommended.

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Open All Year:

Mount Vernon Forest Trail

This quarter-mile trail leads through woods of Oak, Holly, and Laurel trees, past Washington’s cobble quarry, a Native American site, and over a bridge spanning a steep ravine. Interpretive signs throughout the trail describe animals that once roamed the forests of Mount Vernon and identify those that still do. Visitors experience a tranquil and peaceful setting in a forest largely unexplored for 200 years. The beginning of the quarter-mile trail is at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site, which includes the 16-sided treading barn.

February 1 - 29 Black History Month, "Slave Life at Mount Vernon"  Special Interpretation: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wreathlaying: Daily, 12:00 p.m.

Slave Life Program: Sat, Feb 28 & Sun, Feb 29 only. In observance of Black History Month, Mount Vernon interpreters stationed at the Slave Quarters will highlight the lives and contributions of the slaves who built and operated the plantation home of George and Martha Washington. A wreathlaying and presentation occurs daily at the Slave Memorial site at 12:00 p.m. throughout the month of February. On Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, February 29 only, visitors will be able to see an interactive program of colonial Slave Life music and singing, and storytelling about slave history.

Mount Vernon Celebrates George Washington’s 272nd Birthday February 14 and 15 Breakfast with George Washington: Sat and Sun, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

America’s Smallest Hometown Parade: Sat and Sun, 1:30 p.m. George Washington’s favorite breakfast was “hoecakes swimming in butter and honey.” Join “General Washington” for a sample of this meal (while supplies last) as prepared by Mount Vernon’s costumed interpreters and volunteers. Following the breakfast sampler, families can participate in the "America’s Smallest Hometown Parade,” complete with fife and drum corps, 18th-century music, farm animals, and “General Washington.”

February 16 (Mon, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)

George Washington’s 272nd Birthday Celebration

Celebrate the national observance of George Washington’s birthday by visiting his home and burial site FREE-of-charge on this day. The traditional wreathlaying ceremony at Washington's Tomb is at 10:00 a.m., followed by patriotic music and military performances on the Bowling Green by the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard. “General Washington” will be on the grounds to greet visitors and receive birthday wishes.

February 22 (Sun, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) George Washington’s 272nd Birthday Anyone named George, or whose birthday, like Washington’s, is February 22, will be admitted FREE upon presenting identification.

April 1 - August 31 (Daily, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Early Opening!

Mount Vernon's summer hours begin. Open to the public at 8:00 a.m., Mount Vernon is one of the few early-opening attractions in the Washington, D.C. area.

April – September (Tues through Sun) Potomac River Sightseeing Cruises Enjoy a thirty-minute sightseeing excursion and waterside view of Mount Vernon. Several excursions offered daily. Tickets may be purchased at Mount Vernon’s Main Gate or aboard the boat.

April 1 – October 31 (Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) George Washington’s Gristmill at Mount Vernon Season Opening George Washington’s Gristmill at Mount Vernon opens Thursday, April 1. Visitors see an 18th-century water-powered mill in operation, discover how it works, and learn how this particular mill played an important role in George Washington's vision for America's future as "granary to the world." Colonial millers reveal Washington’s innovative approach to farming as they grind corn into meal and wheat into flour just as it was done more than 200 years ago.

Tickets to the Gristmill are available at Mount Vernon’s Main Gate or at the Gristmill Shop, and may be combined with admission to the Estate for an additional $2 for adults and $1.50 for children (6-11). The Gristmill is 3 miles from the Estate’s Main Gate on Route 235 South. Free parking is available at the site.

April 1 - October 31 (Daily) Guided Walking Tours Slave Life at Mount Vernon - This 30-minute guided walking tour highlights the lives and contributions of the African-Americans who built and operated the plantation home of George and Martha Washington. The tour is offered daily at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. Garden and Landscape Tour - This 30-minute guided walking tour highlights George Washington's remarkable design for the gardens and grounds of his Estate. The tour is offered daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. April 1 – October 31 (Daily, 10:00 a.m.) Memorial Presentation: Tribute at the Tomb Public wreathlaying at George and Martha Washingtons’ Tomb. All visitors are invited to participate in a public wreathlaying to commemorate the lives of George and Martha Washington. An historic interpreter will read “Washington's Prayer for His Country” and will lead visitors in the Pledge of Allegiance.

April 17 – May 2 (Daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Gardening Days Spectacular gardens are in bloom as Mount Vernon hosts its annual outdoor garden and gift sale including ornamentals, perennials and annuals, garden items, books, and plants propagated from historic cuttings. Garden and Landscape guided tours are available daily at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., and guests are invited to enter Washington’s historic “orangerie,” or greenhouse, the only occasion this space is open to the public. Greenhouse exhibits include historical medicinal and culinary uses of herbs, flowers and plants.

May 14, 15 and 16 (Fri, Sat, and Sun, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) Spring Wine Festival and Sunset Tour Join Mount Vernon in its spring celebration of the history of the Virginia wine industry on the east lawn of George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, overlooking the Potomac River. Guests sample wines from 16 award-winning Virginia wineries, learn about the successes and failures of our Founding Father’s wine endeavors, enjoy live entertainment, and meet “George Washington” on the Mansion's piazza. Guests experience an evening tour of George Washington's home and are invited to visit the rarely-open basement cellar vaults where he stored his wine. The Shops at Mount Vernon will be open for gift concessions. Starting April 16, tickets are available through Ticketmaster at 703-573-7328, www.ticketmaster.com or at Mount Vernon’s Main Gate. This event goes rain or shine. Early ticket purchases are suggested for this popular event.

May 29 – September 6 (Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) Hands-on History Exhibit Each summer day, Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, children of all ages can explore this activity area and learn about early American life by carding and spinning wool, cross-mending artifacts, using 18th-century tools, constructing wooden buckets, dressing up in colonial clothing, and playing colonial games such as hoops, darts, and graces. Features of the exhibit include: Measure Up to George Washington, a life-size image of George Washington placed next to a colorful ruler, which allows children to measure-up to the master of Mount Vernon; Nelly the life-size fiberglass mule that introduces young visitors to the uses of farm animals at Mount Vernon; and weekly storytelling sessions that entertain as well as enlighten children about 18th-century people and their lifestyle.

May 29 - Sept 6 (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day) Mount Vernon Salutes World War II Veterans Mount Vernon joins in the celebration surrounding the Memorial Day weekend opening of the World War II Memorial in Washington, DC with a special ceremony saluting all veterans, but especially those of WW II. Historic interpreters will lead a moving ceremony at the tomb of General Washington daily at 2:00 p.m. During the ceremony, veterans will be invited to enter the tomb to lay a wreath, and may record their visit in a special guest book. Group leaders may request this ceremony upon arrival at Mount Vernon’s main gate and will be accommodated at any time throughout the day. The ceremony is provided at no additional charge. Mount Vernon is also home to the Purple Heart Memorial that marks the start of the National Purple Heart Trail. Visitors will receive commemorative information about the Purple Heart medal given to American servicemembers who are wounded or killed in combat. The award was created by General Washington in 1782.

June 2 (Wed, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Martha Washington's 273rd Birthday Anyone named Martha or whose birthday is June 2 will be admitted FREE upon presenting identification. Mount Vernon's interpreters will share stories and challenge children to a scavenger hunt quiz about Martha Washington’s role at Mount Vernon.

June 12 & 13 (Sat & Sun, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) Schooner Sultana One of the world’s most authentic reproductions of an 18th-century schooner returns to Mount Vernon where the original anchored in 1770. Tours 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Included in admission.

June 14 (Mon, 11.a.m.) Flag Day/U.S. Immigration & Naturalization Ceremony Mount Vernon's Bowling Green will be the site of a special Immigration and Naturalization Service Ceremony, during which 100 individuals will officially receive American citizenship. This unique and patriotic program, featuring distinguished guests and music, is held annually on Flag Day. The ceremony is co-hosted by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services and Mount Vernon, in partnership with the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Sons of the American Revolution. Regular admission applies to the general public.

July 4 (Sun, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Independence Day Mount Vernon invites visitors to the plantation home of the first American hero for an all-day celebration of Independence Day. The day includes 18th-century patriotic music, a wreathlaying by the Sons of the American Revolution, the annual Red, White, and Blue Concert performance by the National Concert Band of America, and free birthday cake (while supplies last).

August 7 (Sat, time to be determined) Annual Commemoration of the Purple Heart Memorial Mount Vernon honors all recipients of the Purple Heart with this commemoration at the Purple Heart Memorial located just outside Mount Vernon’s Main Gate. The Memorial marks the beginning of the Purple Heart Trail, which runs through Virginia and will ultimately extend to all other states. This event is free and all Purple Heart recipients and their families are encouraged to attend.

August 28 & 29 (Sat and Sun, walkers begin between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.) Volksmarch Rain or shine, join Mount Vernon and the Pentagon Pacesetters for a behind-the-scenes walk of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. This is a rare opportunity for the public to experience the serene, beautiful areas of George Washington's plantation home that are not typically open to the public. Volksmarchers will walk the 6.2 miles (9 kilometers) through the Estate’s back woods. The trail passes by many historical areas of the property such as the Tomb of George and Martha Washington, and also includes a behind-the-scenes look at the greenhouses and barnyards. Maps will provide historical details about each location. Walkers may begin between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

September 18 and 19 (Sat and Sun, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) 18th-Century Craft Fair The annual 18th-Century Craft Fair features dozens of America’s finest craftspeople and plenty of family fun! Rain or shine, colonial-attired artisans demonstrate 18th-century crafts and sell such traditional wares as baskets, woodcarvings, tin and ironwork, leatherworkings, weavings, paper-cuttings, furniture, and much more. The event also features lively 18th-century entertainment including music, fire-eating, sword-swallowing, puppet and magic shows, rat-catchers and gypsies, plus hearty specialty food for sale on-site. This weekend, Potomac River sightseeing cruises, courtesy of Spirit Cruises and Potomac Riverboat Company, are free-of-charge at Mount Vernon’s Wharf at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

September 25 (Sat, 11 a.m.) Annual Heritage Celebration & Commemoration at the Slave Memorial A moving program commemorating the slaves who lived and worked at Mount Vernon, including ceremonial tributes honoring the contributions of early African-Americans, a wreath-laying ceremony at Mount Vernon’s Slave Memorial at the slave burial site, and inspirational choral performances. The commemoration is co-sponsored by The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association and Black Women United for Action.

October 1, 2, and 3 (Fri, Sat, Sun 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.) Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour Join Mount Vernon in its rain or shine fall celebration of the history of the Virginia wine industry, on the east lawn of George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, overlooking the Potomac River. Participants sample wines from 16 award-winning Virginia wineries, learn about the successes and failures of our Founding Father’s wine endeavors, enjoy live blues, and meet “George Washington” on the Mansion's piazza. Guests experience an evening tour of George Washington's home and are invited to visit the rarely-open basement cellar vaults where he stored his wine. The Shops at Mount Vernon will be open for early Christmas shopping. Tickets go on sale September 1 and are available through Ticketmaster at 703-573-7328, www.ticketmaster.com, or at Mount Vernon’s Main Gate. Early ticket purchases are suggested for this popular event.

October 23 and 24 (Sat and Sun, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Fall Harvest Family Days With all the wheat cleared and the crops picked, Mount Vernon will transform its four-acre George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site into a harvest celebration. Rain or shine visitors will meet “General Washington,” and witness wheat-treading and farrier (blacksmithing) demonstrations. Families can create their own cornhusk dolls, take a wagon ride, or find their way through a straw bale maze. An on-site Harvest Bake Sale will offer fresh-baked goods, sandwiches and beverages. This weekend, Potomac River sightseeing cruises, courtesy of Spirit Cruises and Potomac Riverboat Company, are available half-price. Tickets may be purchased at the Main Gate or on the boat. All children, age 11 and under, receive a free pumpkin as they exit the Estate (with child’s ticket), while supplies last.

November 1, 2004 - February 15, 2005 (Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Scouting Days All Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Camp Fire Club members, in uniform or wearing an official pin, are admitted FREE to the Estate, and invited to hike the Forest Trail (map provided). Troops may arrange to lay a wreath at Washington’s tomb and participate in land surveying activities by calling 703-799-8604. November 11 (Thurs, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) Wreathlaying Ceremony: 2:00 p.m. Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans In honor of our nation's veterans, Mount Vernon admits FREE all active duty or retired military. Visitors are also invited to place a flower at Washington’s Tomb and join the Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution at a 2:00 p.m. wreathlaying ceremony in honor of our nation's veterans.

November 26, 27, &28; December 3, 4, & 5; December 10, 11, & 12 (Fri, Sat, and Sun, 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.) Mount Vernon by Candlelight During this holiday program, visitors learn about the Washingtons' Christmas traditions; tour the candlelit Mansion including the rarely-seen third floor; and meet historical characters including Martha Washington and Tobias Lear, who served as Washington’ secretary during his presidency. On the grounds, guests enjoy caroling and free cookies and hot cider around a roaring campfire. This is the only time of the year that Mount Vernon is open exclusively for public evening tours. Ticket sales begin November 1 at Mount Vernon’s Main Gate or through Ticketmaster at 703-573-7328 or www.ticketmaster.com. The Food Court and The Shops at Mount Vernon will be open until 9 p.m. - no admission tickets are necessary to visit these areas.

December 1, 2004 - January 6, 2005 (Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) The Holidays at Mount Vernon The Washingtons' seasonal entertaining is interpreted daily, including Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Visitors learn about 18th-century holiday activities at Mount Vernon, and tour the Mansion, including the rarely-seen third floor. The Mansion is authentically decorated with natural greenery, the traditional Christmas Pye, and Martha Washington’s Great Cake. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, open to the public since 1860, communicates the character and leadership of Washington to millions of Americans each year through a variety of interpretive programs on the Estate and in classrooms across the nation. Mount Vernon is owned and operated by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, founded in 1853, making it America’s oldest national preservation organization. Mount Vernon is located at the southern end of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, just 16 miles from Washington, D.C. Hours of operation: April-August, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; March, September, October, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; November – February, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular admission rates: adults, $11.00; senior citizens, $10.50; children age 6-11, when accompanied by an adult, $5.00; and children under age 5, FREE. Admission fees, restaurant and retail proceeds, along with private donations, support the operation and restoration of Mount Vernon.