Image courtesy of Mount Vernon Estate
Mount Vernon Estate
February is one of the most important months at George Washington’s Mount Vernon as the nation honors its first President, George Washington. Born on Feb. 22, 1732, President Washington defined the governing principles that established American democracy, freedom, liberty, and stability. Birthday celebrations include free admission for Presidents Day, a live interactive educational program teachers can bring into classrooms, a birthday auction, and the annual Birthnight Supper and Ball.
Beyond Presidents Day, February events include Valentine’s dinners, a concert series with the prestigious National Symphony Orchestra, and a book talk with renowned author and historian Phillip Levy. February events and activities include:
Visitors can celebrate President Washington’s birthday at Mount Vernon with free admission on Feb. 20 and 22, 2023. The Estate offers a variety of experiences including tours of the expertly restored Mansion; the Museum and Education Center; more than a dozen historic outbuildings; expansive gardens and a working farm; and Washington’s Tomb and Slave Memorial.
Events on February 20 include an official presidential wreath laying ceremony, a tactical demonstration by the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard, and a musical demonstration by The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps.
February 22 features a Naturalization Ceremony, character performances with General Washington, the U.S. Air Force Strings concert, and music of the Revolution.
Both days also include opportunities to meet General Washington and wish him a happy birthday, a food truck, and Half Crown Bakehouse demonstrations of the General's favorite hoecake breakfast.
Learn more about birthday and Presidents Day events. Watch a video about George Washington’s birthday. Read ten facts everyone should know (but probably doesn’t) about President Washington.
George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, will host a rare open house on Feb. 20 from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Typically open to the public only for events and by appointment, come see all the Library has to offer as it approaches its 10th anniversary. Learn more about the Library.
George Washington’s Masonic Apron on view during the Birthday week. The apron, believed to have been presented to Washington by the Marquis de Lafayette, will be on special display in the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center Feb. 18-22. Learn more.
George Washington’s Birthday Auction opens on Feb. 1 and closes on his birthday, Feb. 22 at 10 p.m. ET. Bid on iconic items, an exclusive private dinner at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, dinner at The Inn at Little Washington, artwork, maps, jewelry, tickets, trips and more. All proceeds support the restoration and preservation of George Washington’s beloved home, Mount Vernon. View and bid on the auction items.
Teachers can bring George Washington's birthday directly into their classrooms on Feb. 17 and 22, 2023. Join a free, live virtual 40-minute program that includes engaging quizzes, fun facts, videos, and Q&A for students. Learn more and register.
George Washington Birthnight Supper & Ball on Feb. 19, 2023. Mount Vernon’s longest-running fundraiser, proceeds from the annual Ball support the restoration and preservation of George Washington’s historic home. Supporters will enjoy a cocktail reception, a three-course seated dinner, a live auction, entertainment, dancing, and a birthday toast delivered to General Washington. Read more.
Savor Valentine’s Day with a three-course gourmet meal and champagne on Feb. 14, available as take-out or dine-in at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.
The National Symphony Orchestra plays a chamber music series, including a champagne and a chocolate reception on Feb. 28 and March 28, 2023. Performer and recording artist David K. Hildebrand will introduce music and instruments General Washington enjoyed, featuring the famed Nelly Parke Custis harpsichord, military music, music in the domestic setting. Read more.
Read the full listing of Mount Vernon events here. Most Mount Vernon events are free or discounted for members. Information about Mount Vernon membership is available here.
