Daytime Fireworks at Mount Vernon on July 4th!

Celebrate Independence Day at George Washington’s Home: Sunday, July 4, 2010 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For Immediate Release
June 14, 2010
Digital images available

Media Contact:
Melissa Wood (703) 799-5203
mwood@mountvernon.org

Daytime Fireworks at Mount Vernon on July 4th!

MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Historic Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, salutes our first commander-in-chief with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event! Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River.  The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last), and a visit from the “first” first couple, “General and Mrs. Washington.”  All events are included in regular Estate admission: adults, $15.00; children ages 6-11, $7.00; and children under 5 are admitted free. Go to Visit.MountVernon.org for more information.

Mount Vernon’s Schedule of Events on Independence Day:
9:30 a.m: Re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment assemble for inspection by “General Washington” on the Bowling Green. The Declaration of Independence is read. 10:00 a.m: Annual Independence Day Wreathlaying. A ceremonial wreathlaying at Washington's Tomb by the George Washington Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.

11:00 a.m: United States Citizenship & Immigration Services Naturalization Ceremony. A special Independence Day naturalization ceremony for America's 100 newest citizens near the Mansion.

12:00 p.m: "Red, White, and Blue" Concert. Patriotic performance by the National Concert Band of America on the Bowling Green.

12:45 p.m: Pyrotechnic Salute to America. Unique daytime fireworks display over the Potomac River. 

1:00 p.m: "Happy Birthday, America" Cake. Birthday cake on the Bowling Green (while supplies last).

1:30 p.m: Revolutionary War Military Music. Demonstration by the First Virginia Regiment on the Bowling Green.

2:30 p.m: Revolutionary War Military Drill. Demonstration by the First Virginia Regiment on the Bowling Green.

Summer Farm Life: July has always been a time of celebration at George Washington’s farm as it marks the beginning of the wheat harvest season.  To celebrate Washington the farmer, field hands will kick-off the season on Independence Day with wheat-treading demonstrations at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site.  Costumed staff will lead Mount Vernon’s horses as they tread wheat in the 16-sided barn at 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.  Visitors can witness Washington’s innovative treading process, learning first-hand how Washington separated grain from straw.

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Events, programs, and activities are subject to change.

Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); Visit.MountVernon.org