Holiday Events
Evening Holiday Events
Throughout the season, Mount Vernon hosts events for the entire family.
Winter Glow
Nov. 29-30, Dec. 15-19, & 23
Join us for an enchanted evening of festive lights and an 18th-century holiday experience at Mount Vernon. See the estate illuminated with brilliant lights set to holiday music. Visit an 18th-century winter encampment, meet our holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel, and roast s’mores.
Christmas Illuminations
DECEMBER 20 - 22
Watch stunning holiday fireworks over the Potomac River., shop a winter market featuring goods that are handmade by colonial artisans, and chat with the soldiers at an 18th-century winter encampment.
Daytime Holiday Activities
Visit Mount Vernon during the holiday season.
Aladdin the Camel
Nov. 26, 2024 – Jan. 6, 2025
Meet the Christmas camel, Aladdin.
In 1787, George Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to Mount Vernon for Christmas.
Holiday Shopping
Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts at The Shops at Mount Vernon.
Our new tartan products are woven in Scotland and are made exclusively for Mount Vernon. They feature the bold blues, golds, and deep reds that echo George Washington’s Commander in Chief uniform.
Holiday Afternoon Tea
Dec. 6 - 8 & 13 - 15, 2024
Join us for an elegant afternoon of Holiday Tea at Mount Vernon, where history meets refinement. Enjoy a delightful selection of fine teas, exquisite pastries, and savory treats while surrounded by the stunning views of George Washington’s estate.
Gift Memberships
Give your loved ones access to Mount Vernon year-round. A membership includes:
- Free, unlimited daytime admission for 12 months
- Discounts on event tickets, food, and gift shop purchases
- A subscription to Mount Vernon Magazine
- Access to exclusive member-only events
Mount Vernon is located in northern Virginia, just a short drive from Washington, D.C.
For more information about things to do in Virginia, visit Virginia.org, the official tourism website for the state of Virginia. You’ll find an overview of each region in Virginia, as well as information about cultural attractions, museums, upcoming events, and where to stay. You can also purchase merchandise featuring the official Virginia slogan, “Virginia is for Lovers.”