Experience an Evening of Illuminations & Fireworks
Join Mount Vernon for a family-friendly celebration of the holiday season with an enchanted evening of Christmas Illuminations.
Illuminated historic spaces throughout the estate create a festive atmosphere that delights guests of all ages.
Watch a Nighttime Fireworks Show
Watch a spectacular holiday fireworks show, choreographed to music, over the Potomac River. The fireworks program begins at approximately 8 p.m.
Tour George Washington's Mansion
Step inside George Washington’s home and experience the Mansion illuminated in the evening.
Shop an Artisan Winter Market
Meet artisan sutlers who produce hand-crafted 18th-century wares, available for purchase at the Winter Market.
Meet George & Martha Washington
Join George and Martha Washington inside the Interpretive Center for a meet-and-greet. Then hear George Washington's special holiday remarks at the Piazza as he kicks off the fireworks extravaganza.
Shop an Artisan Winter Market
Meet artisan sutlers who produce hand-crafted 18th-century wares, available for purchase at the Winter Market.
- Phil The Glassblower
- River Rat Pottery
- Samson Historical
- Sullivan Press
- Tasha's Own
- Ver Sacrum
Greet Aladdin the Camel
Meet our holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel, continuing the tradition of George Washington bringing a camel to Mount Vernon in 1787.
Discover 18th-Century Holiday Traditions
- Enjoy cheerful Christmas caroling on the 12-acre field.
- Play games in a tavern-style tent on the west end of the bowling green.
- Dance to 18th-century music in the greenhouse.
Savor the Season with S'mores & Treats
Warm up with food, including s'mores kits and holiday drinks from the Mount Vernon Food Truck.
S'mores kits are $8 for 2 people and $16 for 4 people.
Enjoy Fresh-Baked Gingerbread
Meet our resident baker Justin Cherry and take home gingerbread crafted with a replica of the 18th-century mold used by Christopher Ludwick, the Continental Army’s Superintendent of Bakers during the Revolutionary War.
Talk to Revolutionary War Soldiers at the Patriots Path
View an 18th-century winter encampment at the Patriots Path and learn about the lives of Revolutionary soldiers as they traveled.
Explore a Straw Bale Maze
Wind through a straw bale kids' maze filled with Christmas lights.
Seating & Safety Information
Lawn Seating
Guests are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on the east lawn, but please be courteous to those around you. Oversize chairs, large strollers, stroller wagons, tables, tents, carts, and coolers are not permitted. Seating is not provided.
Bag Inspections
Please note that all guests must go through bag inspections upon entrance. Be aware of the potential long line for entry at the beginning of the event, and help the line move faster by packing lightly.
Accessibility
Christmas Illuminations is an outdoor experience at night. Be prepared for low temperatures, varying light levels, and uneven walkways.
The event also includes moving lights, amplified music, and musket-firing demonstrations, which can be heard throughout the evening in the historic area.
Pet Policy
Please note: While we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to Christmas Illuminations?
Dress for winter weather and an evening outdoors. Guests may also bring a blanket or lawn chair for the east lawn; seating is not provided.
Does Christmas Illuminations take place rain or shine?
Mount Vernon is open rain or shine. Some programs or activities may be modified or canceled because of severe weather.
Are dogs allowed at Christmas Illuminations?
No. Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor areas during daytime public visitation. They are not permitted during evening events.
Can I stay at Mount Vernon between my daytime visit and an evening event?
No. The estate closes between daytime admission and evening events. Daytime visitors must exit the estate when it closes.
If you are attending an evening event, you must re-enter through the main entrance using your separate event ticket.
What areas of the estate will be open during the event?
Only the 12-acre field, historic grounds area near the Mansion, and the The Shops at Mount Vernon will be open. The other areas are closed.
The Shops at Mount Vernon close at 7 p.m.
Where is Mount Vernon, and how do I get there?
Mount Vernon is located at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway in Mount Vernon, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C., and is easily accessible by car.
Where can I park when visiting Mount Vernon?
Free parking is available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I take personal photographs inside George Washington's Mansion?
Personal photography is permitted inside the Mansion. Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and other camera accessories are not permitted.
Is Mount Vernon accessible to visitors with disabilities?
Mount Vernon offers accessible parking, routes, and accommodations throughout the estate. Some historic areas have limitations because of their age and design.
Will my bag be inspected?
Yes. All bags and containers 16x16x8 inches or smaller are subject to inspection upon arrival. Larger bags are not permitted.
