July 4th: 18th Century Chocolate Ice Cream Making Demonstrations & Daytime Fireworks

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

18th Century Chocolate Ice Cream Making Demonstrations & Daytime Fireworks

At George Washington’s 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.  New this year: From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., visitors can watch as costumed staff  provide a glimpse into the making of one of George Washington’s favorite desserts – ice cream! Mount Vernon’s team will explain the fascinating process and use reproduction period equipment to demonstrate how ice cream was made in the 18th century.

As part of the new Hoecakes & Hospitality: Cooking with Martha Washington exhibition, visitors will have a rare last chance to view Martha Washington’s hand-written recipe book, “Booke of Cookery”, on display through July 5.  By the time Martha Washington received it, the book of 200 recipes was already 100 years old and had been handed down through generations of early Virginia women. On loan from the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Martha Washington’s cookbook shares a glimpse into the culinary habits of early America and presidential household.

The Independence Day 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.” 

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. Visitors can witness Washington’s innovative treading process, learning first-hand how Washington separated grain from straw.

All events are included in regular Estate admission: adults, $15.00; children ages 6-11, $7.00; and children under 5 are admitted free. Please visit to www.MountVernon.org for more information.

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Events, programs, and activities are subject to change.
Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); http://www.MountVernon.org

Since 1860, over 80 million visitors have made George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens the most popular historic home in America.  Through thought-provoking tours, entertaining events, and stimulating educational programs on the Estate and in classrooms across the nation, Mount Vernon strives to preserve George Washington’s place in history as “First in War, First in Peace, and First in the Hearts of His Countrymen.”  Mount Vernon is owned and operated by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, America’s oldest national preservation organization, founded in 1853.  A picturesque drive to the southern end of the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway, Mount Vernon is located just 16 miles from the nation’s capital. 

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, $15.00; senior citizens, $14.00; children age 6-11, when accompanied by an adult, $7.00; and children under age 5, FREE.  Admission fees, restaurant and retail proceeds, along with private donations, support the operation and restoration of Mount Vernon.