Mount Vernon Christmas Illuminations & Candlelight Tours

About this adventure

Step into an authentic 18th-century holiday celebration at the historic estate of George Washington. During Mount Vernon by Candlelight, costumed character interpreters lead guided lantern-lit evening walks through the historic grounds and mansion, sharing colonial Christmas traditions, 18th-century dancing, and seasonal chamber music. Guests can warm up by outdoor bonfires while enjoying complimentary hot spiced cider and colonial ginger cookies. On the signature Christmas Illuminations weekend (December 19–20), the estate lights up with glowing historic displays, a winter market with colonial craft artisans, a Revolutionary War encampment, visits with Aladdin the Christmas Camel, and a spectacular fireworks show choreographed to patriotic holiday music bursting over the Potomac River. The historic estate walkways accommodate rugged strollers, though baby carriers are required inside the historic mansion due to period staircases. Tickets are strictly capacity-controlled and regularly sell out by mid-November.