Christmas Illuminations at Mount Vernon
Visitors explore illuminated historic grounds and can tour George Washington's Mansion in the evening. The event features musical fireworks choreographed over the Potomac River, an 18th-century winter encampment, an artisan Winter Market, and appearances by George and Martha Washington alongside Aladdin the Camel. Guests can also enjoy caroling on the 12-acre field, 18th-century greenhouse dancing, and a straw bale kids' maze.
What to Expect
Potomac River fireworks, historic illuminations, and 18th-century holiday traditions at Washington's estate.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Northern Virginia
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association
Food & Drink
Concessions include s’mores kits, gingerbread, hot apple cider, hot chocolate, and other food and drinks; alcohol is available only to guests aged 21 or older.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and history-loving holiday visitors
Vibe
Festive and historic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adults (ages 12+): general public $58; members $46.40. Youth (ages 6–11): general public $36; members $28.80. Ages 5 and under: free. Mansion Tour add-on: $5. S’mores kits: $8 for 2 people or $16 for 4 people. Concessions are available for purchase; listed prices include hot food $6–$12, snacks $3–$5, nonalcoholic drinks $2–$5, and alcoholic drinks $6–$10. A pretzel cheese dip add-on is $2. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Parking: Free on-site parking is available first-come, first-served.
- Accessibility: Features accessible parking and routes, but involves low temperatures, varying light levels, uneven walkways, and historic area limitations.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed on the grounds during evening events.
Tips & Advice
- Pack lightly, because every guest goes through bag inspection at the entrance, bags larger than 16x16x8 inches are refused, and the opening line can be long.
- Bring a lawn chair or blanket for the east lawn to watch the fireworks over the Potomac, since Mount Vernon provides no seating.
- If you visit during the day, you must leave when the estate closes and re-enter through the main entrance with your separate evening event ticket.
- Leave oversize chairs, large strollers, stroller wagons, coolers and outside food at home, since none are permitted on the estate during the event.
- Dress for winter weather, since the whole evening is outdoors at night with low temperatures, low light and uneven walkways around the historic grounds.
Special Events & Promotions
- Mansion Tour add-on, sold separately, to see George Washington's home lit up in the evening.
- Members get discounted event tickets.
- S'mores kits for 2 or 4 people, sold at the Mount Vernon Food Truck.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Dress for winter weather and an evening outdoors. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for the east lawn, because no seating is provided.
What food and drink is available?
Concessions sell hot food, winter snacks, and hot and cold drinks, including alcoholic drinks for guests 21 and over. The Mount Vernon Food Truck has s'mores kits and holiday drinks. Cash and credit are accepted, and outside food is not permitted.
Can I go inside the Mansion?
Yes, with the Mansion Tour add-on. You'll see George Washington's home lit up for the evening. Personal photos are allowed, but not flash, tripods or selfie sticks.
Which parts of the estate are open?
Only the 12-acre field, the historic grounds near the Mansion and The Shops at Mount Vernon are open. The Shops close before the event ends.
Is the event accessible?
Mount Vernon has accessible parking, routes and accommodations, though some historic areas have limits. Expect low temperatures, low light, uneven walkways, moving lights, amplified music and musket firing.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.