Celebrate the Holidays at Mount Vernon
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, roast s'mores, and purchase holiday gifts for your loved ones.
18th-Century Entertainment
- Visit our 18th-century tavern tent on the bowling green for music and games.
- Chat with people from Washington’s world to explore traditions and envision what it was like preparing for twelfth night at the Interpretative Center (entry until 7:30 p.m.)
- Learn about holiday traditions of the past in the Ford Orientation Center as you prepare to enter into Washington's world.
- Dance to 18th-century music in the greenhouse (entry until 7:45 p.m.)
- See sparks fly at the blacksmith shop.
- Meet our holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel, continuing the tradition of when George Washington brought a camel to Mount Vernon in 1787.
- Enjoy an 18th-century look at the Mansion and hear stories from 1774, as told by our history interpreters (Mansion Circle)
Holiday Shopping & Dining
- Purchase holiday food and drinks, including s'mores kits.
- Shop for holiday gifts from The Shops at Mount Vernon on the 12-acre field.
Kids' Activities
- Wind through a straw bale kids' maze filled with Christmas lights.
- Play "I Spy General George Washington." Search for General Washington, hidden among the lights and enchanted spaces of the estate and see how many you can find!
Accessibility
Winter Glow is an outdoor walking experience at night. Be prepared for low temperatures, varying levels of light, 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.
Pet Policy
Please note, while we enjoy our four-legged friends during the daytime, pets are not allowed on the grounds for evening events.
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.
