A visit to Mount Vernon begins in the Ford Orientation Center, and during the holidays this space is decorated with a dozen Christmas trees. As you walk into the historic area, Aladdin greets you on the 12-acre field and lanterns line the paths.
You may notice that there is no greenery in the Mansion like we see in modern homes. In the 18th century, Christmas was primarily a religious holiday marked by parties and visits from friends and relatives. There was little decoration. Rather, Americans expressed their holiday spirit through the abundance of their tables and increased prayer and contemplation.