Celebrate the Holidays at George Washington's Home

Evening Fireworks, Candlelight Tours, and New Daytime Programs

MOUNT VERNON, VA – Celebrate the holiday season at George Washington’s Mount Vernon! Start a new family tradition at Mount Vernon’s Christmas Illuminations event. Watch as a dazzling display of fireworks are launched over the Potomac River. Lady Washington welcomes you to her home during Mount Vernon’s annual Candlelight tours.

Mount Vernon by Candlelight
November 25 & 26, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
December 2 & 3, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
December 10 & 11, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
December 18, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

During Mount Vernon by Candlelight, enjoy character-guided tours of the first and second floors of the Mansion, 18th-century dancing and fireside caroling. learn more about holiday traditions in 18th-century Virginia.

On the Mansion tour, the Washingtons are preparing for a festive celebration with friends and family, a favorite holiday activity at Mount Vernon.  How will they celebrate the holidays? Candlelight participants will learn about holiday traditions in 18th-century Virginia.

Mount Vernon by Candlelight takes place rain or shine. $24 adult; $16 youth (ages 2-11).

Christmas at Mount Vernon
November 25 - January 6, 9 a.m. — 4 p.m.

The holidays are full of delight at George Washington’s estate. During the day, tour the Mansion, watch historic chocolate-making demonstrations, and meet Aladdin the Camel. Join daily “Camel Talks” and learn more about the rare animals at George Washington's home during the holiday season. Hear from costumed friends and family of the Washingtons tell charming stories of Christmas traditions of the past. Mount Vernon is open every day of the year, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

New this year: Mount Vernon has new special weekend activities (included with additional fees)!

Holiday Ornament Making: On select weekends, make your own special Mount Vernon holiday wooden ornament! For children ages 5-10, accompanied by an adult. Included in admission. Supplies limited.

Holiday Teddy Bear Teas:  Bring your favorite stuffed animal friend to have “tea” with “Lady Washington,” as you experience the hospitality of the lady of the house. This special experience will also include a hands-on seasonal activity. For ages 4-11, accompanied by an adult. Refreshments provided. Select weekends only. $5 in addition to general admission.

Wreath-Making Classes:  Brighten your home for the harvest and holiday season! Work with one of Mount Vernon's horticulturists to decorate a wreath with dried botanicals representative of plants grown on the estate. For ages 16 and older. December 11, 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. $35 (includes general admission). Cost includes supplies.

Christmas Illuminations
December 16 & 17, 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Kick off your holiday season with sparking fireworks overlooking the Potomac River on Friday & Saturday, December 16 & 17!

Join Mount Vernon for an evening of family-friendly fun and fireworks choreographed to holiday music, with fireworks beginning around 9 p.m. Take a stroll through the estate while being serenaded by local choirs, visit with re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment in winter encampment, and learn 18th-century dance moves from costumed guides in the Greenhouse. “George and Martha Washington” will also be on site to greet Mount Vernon’s holiday guests. 

Watch as colonial artisans demonstrate the 18th-century process of creating chocolate. Keep toasty by warming up by a bonfire, visiting the blacksmith shop, or enjoying some hot chocolate or cider. Additional tasty food will be available for purchase. Still haven’t found the perfect holiday gift? Take some time to complete any last minute gift needs at the Shops at Mount Vernon, open late during Christmas Illuminations.

Christmas Illuminations takes place rain or shine. $34 adult/$24 youth with Mansion tour. $30 adult/$20 youth without Mansion tour.

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