Summer Early Opening Hours are extended daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. from April 1 through August 31, 2008.
Gardener’s House Grand Opening and Gardening Days:
Gardener’s House Grand Opening - March 21, 2008 - 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.The last of Mount Vernon's restored original outbuildings, George Washington’s Gardener’s House, opens to the public with a special ceremony. Washington’s gardener, William Spence, will interact with visitors after the ceremony and during Easter Weekend.
Gardening Days at Mount Vernon - April 12 - May 11, 2008 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The beautiful gardens are in bloom for the annual outdoor garden and gift sale including ornamentals, perennials and annuals, plants propagated from historic cuttings and more. Price included in admission.
National Treasure Tour:
April 5 - October 31, 2008 - Tours are offered at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.Due to the popularity of Mount Vernon’s special Basement Tours in January and February, an entire National Treasure Tour has been created for a limited time in 2008. This hour-long walking tour includes behind-the-scenes information about areas where National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets filming took place and how these locations were used in George Washington's time. The Mansion's basement and its historic cornerstone are included in this fun and interesting tour.
Mount Vernon’s Spring Garden Party:
May 10 - 11, 2008 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Mount Vernon presents a festive Spring Garden Party, including music and activities in each of the gardens. On Mother’s Day, visiting moms will receive a seed packet (while supplies last). On Sunday only, the Mother of Our Country shares her insights as mother to her children, grandchildren, and her country in the Little Theater at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. in the Little Theater.
Spring Wine Festival and Sunset Tour:
May 16 - 18, 2008 from 6 - 9 p.m.Bring a blanket to these popular Mount Vernon evenings of wine and entertainment and enjoy a memorable evening of live jazz music and breathtaking Potomac River views. Candlelit Mansion tours include the rarely-seen Mansion cellar. Tickets sell out fast for this very popular event. For more information about the event, including ticket prices and how to order tickets, visit: Mount Vernon Wine Festival and Sunset Tour.
Naturalization Ceremony:
May 19, 2008 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.Celebrate with 100 individuals as they officially receive American citizenship at this annual patriotic program, featuring distinguished guests and musical performances by the Marine Band and the National Men's Chorus. Regular admission applies to the general public.
Martha Washington's 277th Birthday:
June 2, 2008 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.If your name is Martha or your birthday is June 2, you are invited to enjoy this day at Mount Vernon for free, upon presenting your identification.
Father's Day:
June 15, 2008 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Visitors will enjoy a special chance to meet the Father of our Country as George Washington hosts guests for questions and photographs and gives special performances in Mount Vernon's Little Theater. Admission to George Washington's Distillery and Gristmill is free with estate admission for all fathers.
An American Celebration at Mount Vernon:
July 4, 2008 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.The home of our first commander-in-chief will celebrate George Washington's contribution to America's independence and freedom on the Fourth of July with its annual daytime celebration. The day will feature musical performances, a special wreath laying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last), and a visit by "General Washington" himself. All events are included in regular Estate admission.
Annual Commemoration of Purple Heart Memorial:
August 7, 2008 from 12 - 1 p.m.All recipients of the Purple Heart are honored during this commemoration at the Purple Heart Memorial. Located at Mount Vernon's Main Gate, the Memorial marks the beginning of the Purple Heart Trail, which runs through Virginia and will eventually extend to all other states. Free and all Purple Heart recipients and their families are encouraged to attend.
