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 interpreters portraying Washington’s family, friends, and enslaved or hired staff.
Hear how the Washingtons celebrated Christmas with simple gatherings, letters, and hope for peace and being together during a difficult year.
What to Do When You Arrive
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.
If arriving more than 15 minutes before your ticket time, feel free to visit The Shops at Mount Vernon while you wait.
Tour the Washingtons' Mansion
Explore the lantern-lit historic area, stopping at the slave quarters, outbuildings, and inside the Washingtons' Mansion.
As you walk through the home of the first president, experience it illuminated in the evening.
Follow the story of the Washingtons and those at Mount Vernon as they await news of the Continental Army's daring crossing of the Delaware River.
- Why the Continental Army's situation was so desperate
- How the crossing affected people at Mount Vernon
- How the victory at Trenton brought new hope to the American cause
Meet Aladdin the Christmas Camel
In 1787, George Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to Mount Vernon for Christmas.
Today, Mount Vernon continues that tradition with our annual guest Aladdin the camel. Greet him on the 12-acre field.
Celebrate the Season with Dancing, Games & Holiday Treats
Learn about holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia with music and dancing in the greenhouse.
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.
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.
