Colonial Days for Student Groups

Watch How Blacksmithing was Done in the 18th-Century

All Day

In the historic area, see a blacksmith demonstrate 18th-century techniques for creating tools and items that were needed for everyday life at Mount Vernon during Washington's time.

See How Colonial Era Textiles Were Made at Mount Vernon

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Stop by the spinning house in the historic area to discover the 18th-century spinning techniques used by enslaved and hired spinners to make thread, yarn, and other fibers.

Try Your Hand at Wool Carding

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

See 18th-century tools on the 12-acre field to comb out tangles in wool, which is one of the first steps in making wool into winter clothing.

Explore the Foodways of Washington's Time

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

On the 12-acre field, watch as historical interpreters prepare period-inspired dishes and share stories about the ingredients, recipes, and foodways associated with the Washingtons, enslaved people, and hired workers.

Uncover Stories of Enslaved People Through Archaeology

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

On the 12-acre field, examine replica artifacts uncovered at Mount Vernon and discover how archaeology helps reveal the stories and daily lives of the people who were enslaved here.

Participate in Interactive Farming History

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Learn about the crops that sustained George Washington's estate. See how scientific farming methods and new technologies shaped the way Mount Vernon's farms produced food and goods for daily life and trade on the 12-acre field.

Play, Create, and Learn at the Hands-on-History Center

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Designed for children under 12, the family-friendly Hands-on-History Center in the Museum & Education Center offers interactive activities, replica artifacts, and educational games inspired by George Washington's life.

Experience Life in a Revolutionary War Encampment

All Day

At the Patriots Path, experience the American Revolution as you walk through an 18th-century Continental Army encampment featuring soldiers' tents and an officer’s tent.

Discover What Foods Were Foraged & Farmed

9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Learn about the foods the enslaved community at Mount Vernon may have foraged and farmed, such as persimmons, honey, and fish, through hands-on objects and a sorting activity on the 12-acre field.