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

MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Mount Vernon celebrates the tenth anniversary of its 18th-Century Craft Fair on Saturday, September 17, and Sunday, September 18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fair is a re-creation of a lively early American marketplace. More than 50 juried artisans from across the nation will demonstrate their trades and sell their wares while two stages of family entertainment delight audiences with 18th-century amusements. Free Potomac River sightseeing cruises are available while supplies last. Mount Vernon’s 18th-Century Craft Fair is recognized by the American Bus Association as one of the top 100 events in North America. The event is included with regular admission: adults, $11; children, 6-11 $5; children 5 and under, free. Advanced tickets are available through Ticketmaster.                                           

Mount Vernon’s 18th-Century Crafts Fair is the most authentic and diverse event of its kind; bringing together distinguished artisans working in colonial attire and a dozen entertainers who re-create the amusements loved by early Americans. As visitors shop, artisans demonstrate their crafts and explain the historic trades used to make items similar to those George Washington purchased in the 18th century.

George and Martha Washington will preside over a host of amusements including: The James Rose Puppets; Mr. Bayly, Conjuring and Entertainments; Signora Bella, Equilibrist; Otto the Sword Swollower; Ship’s Company Chanteymen; and, more! Visitors can participate in sword play, drum lessons, surveying, open-hearth cooking, and other 18th-century hands-on activities. Guided walking tours and Potomac River sightseeing cruises are free (while supplies last)!

Fair fare, ranging from turkey legs to ice cream and pretzels, will be available from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant concession stands.

In honor of the tenth anniversary of the fair, Mount Vernon commissioned a painting by contemporary folk artist Patricia Palermino of Alexandria, Virginia. The whimsical painting depicts many of the artists and entertainers who have helped re-create an early American marketplace for a decade. A commemorative poster will be given FREE with each advanced ticket purchased through Ticketmaster, or will be available on site for $10.

Early American marketplaces were common in George Washington’s day and ranged in duration from a few days to several weeks. Citizens attended fairs to exchange and barter goods as well as exchange gossip and enjoy theatrical shows and musical performances. The earliest-known fair in the Mount Vernon area was in 1752 in a town that would become known as Alexandria.

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Admission to the 18th-Century Fair is included in regular Estate admission. Events, programs, and activities are subject to change. Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); www.mountvernon.org