Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens celebrates the holiday season with a special daytime program from Thanksgiving Day weekend through the Twelve Days of Christmas. Special festivities include themed decorations, a gingerbread Mount Vernon, historical chocolate-making demonstrations, 18th-century dancing, and even a Christmas camel just like George Washington had on the grounds during Christmas of 1787. All programs are included in general admission: $15/adult; $7/child, free for children 5 and younger. Mount Vernon is open every day of the year, including Christmas and New Years. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during "Christmas at Mount Vernon." See Photos of Christmas at Mount Vernon

Daily Christmas Programs at Mount Vernon

See chololate making demonstrations over an open fire. The American Heritage Chocolate Program uses an authentic colonial recipe and costumed chocolatiers to reproduce the distinct flavors of the 18th century. Samples available from 2-3 p.m., daily. Chocolate bars, sticks, and spiced drink mix are sold at The Shops at Mount Vernon. Tour the third floor of the Mansion where Lady Washington lived after her beloved husband died. She never returned to their shared room and instead lived the rest of her years in a garret chamber, which was just refurbished three years ago. The third floor is only open during "Christmas at Mount Vernon." Meet "Lady Washington" herself! The popular hostess presents a charming program and takes questions in the Little Theater. Schedule may vary. See George Washington’s Christmas Camel! Washington was fond of unusual animals and plants, and he paid 18 shillings in 1787 for a camel to temporarily live at Mount Vernon for his guests during Christmas. Try your hand - and feet - at the Virginia reel, or just watch and enjoy the ambiance as costumed actors demonstrate dances that were popular in the 18th century. Demonstrations are offered in the greenhouse. Schedule may vary. Contact our expert meeting planners today at 202-797-2095 to book rooms for your group attending Christmas at Mount Vernon or click here to submit an RFP.