See the Estate Aglow
Enter the lantern-lit historic area and marvel as you see Washington's famous landscape transformed by light and music. Historic spaces throughout the estate will be aglow and illuminated, creating a festive atmosphere that will delight guests of all ages!
Warm up by the crackling fires and see sparks fly at the blacksmith shop. Purchase holiday gifts for your loved ones as you shop our selection of gifts on the 12-acre field.
Meet 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
- Listen to people from Washington’s world and learn what preparing for twelfth night was like. Performances are in the Interpretative Center (last performance at 7:30 p.m.)
- Learn about past holiday traditions in the Ford Orientation Center as you prepare to enter Washington's world.
- Gather in front of the Mansion to hear stories from 1774, as told by our history interpreters (Mansion circle)
Play Colonial Games
Visit our 18th-century tavern tent on the bowling green for music and games.
Dance in the Greenhouse
Dance to 18th-century music in the greenhouse (last dance is called at 7:45 p.m.)
Hear Caroling (Nov. 29-30, Dec. 15-16)
Be transported by the sounds of Christmas carols performed by carolers in 18th-century costumes.
Visit the Museum
Discover the history of Mount Vernon and its landscape with our exhibit, Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon.
Enjoy S'mores & Holiday Treats
Purchase holiday food and drinks, including s'mores kits, from the Mount Vernon Inn food truck.
Shop for Gifts
Shop for holiday gifts from The Shops at Mount Vernon (open until 7 p.m.). They will also have gifts available for purchase on the 12-acre field.
Kids' Activities
Play "I Spy"
Play "I Spy General George Washington" and search for General Washington hidden among the lights and enchanted spaces of the estate. See how many you can find!
Explore a Straw Bale Maze
Kids can wind through a straw bale kids' maze filled with Christmas lights on the bowling green.
Free Admission in December, January & February
Winter Glow ticket holders receive free daytime admission in December 2024, January 2025, and February 2025 (value of $28/adult and $15/youth).
Present your Winter Glow ticket at the gate for daytime admittance.
Tickets are non-transferrable.
Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant
During this holiday event, reservations are highly encouraged to dine at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. Walk-in seating may be limited or even unavailable some nights. Dinner is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day of the event.
Please call 703. 799. 5296 or use link below to email us to make a reservation.
Accessibility
Winter Glow is an outdoor walking 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.
Please contact events@mountvernon.org for more information.
The interior of the Mansion is closed during Winter Glow for preservation work. Outside food and beverages are not allowed.
Bag Inspection, Strollers & Wagons
All guests must go through Bag Inspection upon entrance.
Please note that oversized strollers, such as stroller wagons, are not permitted.
Pet Policy
Please note, while we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.
