Take a Guided Tour of the Estate by Candlelight
Step back in time through history with Mount Vernon on a 45-minute candlelit tour of the estate as we celebrate the build-up to the 250th anniversary of American Independence.
Learn about holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia, and hear stories of Christmases past from costumed character interpreters portraying Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff.
Arrive at the Ford Orientation Center up to 15 minutes before your ticket time to view themed Christmas trees and warm up with light concessions.
Tour the Reopened First & Second Floors of Washington's Mansion
Explore the lantern-lit historic area, stopping at the slave quarters, outbuildings, and inside Washington’s Mansion.
Step inside George Washington’s home and experience the newly restored first and second floors illuminated in the evening. The Washingtons’ Bedchamber has been transformed with new wallpaper, reproduction furniture, and linens.
Celebrate the Season with Holiday-Themed Activities
Learn about holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia with music, sweet treats, and a visit from a special Mount Vernon resident.
- Greet Aladdin, the Christmas camel, on the 12-acre field.
- Participate in 18th-century dancing in the greenhouse.
- Take photos with decorated Christmas trees in the Ford Orientation Center.
- Enjoy music, complimentary ginger cookies and spiced cider, and play tavern games in a tent on the bowling green.
Visit Our Revolutionary War Encampment
Explore our Revolutionary War encampment, located on the Patriot's Path, to discover what it was like to be a Continental Army soldier stationed outside of Cambridge, Massachusetts during 1775.
Throughout the encampment, you'll learn about:
- The first Christmas of the Revolutionary War
- Martha Washington's special Twelfth Night celebration
- George Washington's command of the army
- African American involvement in the war
- The importance of capturing Boston during the war
Take Home a Holiday Keepsake From the Shops
Head to The Shops at Mount Vernon until 7 p.m. each day of the event and browse holiday treasures to commemorate your visit.
Take a Guided Tour of the Estate by Candlelight
Learn about holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia, and hear stories of Christmases past from costumed character actors portraying Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff.
Stroll through the lantern-lit historic area, stopping at the slave quarters, outbuildings, and inside Washington’s Mansion.
Accessibility & Pet Policies
Mount Vernon by Candlelight is an interior Mansion tour and an outdoor walking tour at night.
Please dress for the weather conditions. Be prepared for low temperatures, varying levels of light, and uneven walkways. The 12-acre field has no paved paths and some uneven ground.
The first floor of the Mansion is accessible by wheelchair.
Oversized strollers and wagons are not permitted.
While we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.
Still have questions? Visit our FAQ Page for this event.
Have Questions?
Check out our FAQ Page for this event.
Please contact events@mountvernon.org for more information.
