Mount Vernon by Candlelight

Meet Mrs. Washington and other 18th-century residents of Mount Vernon in a 45-minute candlelit tour of the Mount Vernon estate.

Arrive at the Ford Orientation Center 15 minutes before your ticket time to:

• View themed Christmas trees in the Ford Orientation Center.
• Warm-up with light concessions sold in the Ford Orientation Center.
• Shop for holiday gifts at The Shops at Mount Vernon (open late.)

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.

• Walk through the lantern-lit historic area, stopping at the Slave Quarters, outbuildings, and inside Washington’s Mansion.
• Greet Aladdin, the Christmas camel, on the 12-Acre Field.
• Participate in 18th-century dancing in the Greenhouse.
• Listen to 18th-century music and caroling while enjoying complimentary ginger cookies and spiced cider in the Donald W. Reynolds Education Center Lobby.

1773: The Road to Revolution

Join Mount Vernon as we celebrate the build-up to the 250th Anniversary of American Independence.

• Hear how a young Colonel Washington and his family celebrated Christmas in a year of personal loss, growing tensions, and uncertainty.

Accessibility

Mount Vernon by Candlelight is an interior Mansion Tour and 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.

Pet Policy

Please note, while we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.

Questions?

Check out our FAQ Page for this event.

Please contact events@mountvernon.org for more information.