Holiday Events
Signature Holiday Events
Throughout the season, Mount Vernon hosts events for the entire family.
Winter Glow
Nov. 29-30, Dec. 15-19, & 23
Experience an enchanted evening of festive 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 people from Washington’s world to learn about 18th-century holiday traditions.
Holiday Afternoon Tea
Dec. 6 - 8 & 13 - 15, 2024
Join us for an elegant afternoon tea at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. Enjoy a selection of fine teas, pastries, and sandwiches as you hear live harp music and are surrounded by festive holiday decorations.
Daytime Holiday Activities
These activities are included with daytime admission.
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.
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.”