Mount Vernon Fall Events: Wine Festival, Trick-Or-Treat

MOUNT VERNON, VA — If you haven't seen George Washington's Mount Vernon during the peak fall foliage time, it should be on your bucket list this year. The variety of fall events planned at the estate give you all the more reason to go.

We've rounded up the top fall events at Mount Vernon to add to your calendar. New events this year include the George Washington Whiskey Festival and trick-or-treating for dogs. Some events are included with Mount Vernon admission; others have special prices.

September

George Washington Patriot Run: Sept. 8

Race through history during the area’s most unique 10K/5K, presented by Lockheed Martin. The course takes runners up and down the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway and traces Washington’s footsteps through the historic grounds at Mount Vernon. Cross the finish line with the Mansion in view and enjoy beer, concessions, music and an awards ceremony for the top finishers.

Admission: $50 from May 1-Aug. 29; $60 from Aug. 30-Sept. 7; $65 on Sept. 8

Colonial Market & Fair: Sept. 14-15

Visitors are whisked away to an early-American marketplace with demonstrations, crafts and entertainment at the Colonial Market & Fair. More than 35 artisans from across the nation will demonstrate their trades and sell their wares while two stages of family entertainment delight audiences with 18th-century amusements. As visitors shop, artisans demonstrate their crafts and explain the historic trades used to make items similar to those George Washington purchased in the 18th century.

Admission: Included with admission to Mount Vernon

Tea with Martha Washington: Sept. 28, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Join Martha Washington for tea as she shares memories of her and the General’s life as a young married couple, during the Revolutionary War, and at their beloved Mount Vernon. Guests are served fine tea and an elegant light fare prepared by the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant and can take a self-guided tour of the estate and decorative arts collection.

Admission: $45

October

Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour: Oct. 11-13, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

This popular event showcases the history of Virginia wine. Bring a blanket, relax on the east lawn overlooking the scenic Potomac River, and enjoy live music as you sample wine from 20 of Virginia's finest wineries. Take a photo with George and Martha Washington on the piazza, tour the Mansion and cellar, and learn about the successes and failures of our Founding Father’s endeavors with wine.

Admission: $48 for Friday, Oct. 11; $52 for Saturday, Oct. 12; $42 for Sunday, Oct. 13

Fall Harvest Family Days: Oct. 19-20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Enjoy fall activities with the whole family at Mount Vernon. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride and play colonial games on the bowling green before heading to the Pioneer Farm to observe 18th-century demonstrations and greet General Washington. Make your way through a straw bale maze and listen to the Itinerant Band play colonial tunes. Sightseeing cruises will be free throughout the weekend while supplies last.

Admission: Included with admission to Mount Vernon

Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon: Oct. 26, 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Participate in a special scavenger hunt, take a wagon ride, and create a Halloween craft during this spooky event. Watch wool carding and spinning, historic chocolate-making,fishnet making demonstrations in the historic area, try 18th-century dancing and greet Martha Washington. Walk in a children’s costume parade—prizes will be awarded for the best George and Martha costumes. Trick-or-treating at Mount Vernon takes place rain or shine.

Admission: $8-$16

Trick-or-Treating with Dogs: Oct. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bring your dog to Mount Vernon for howl-o-ween fun. Enjoy a great photo opportunity in front of the Mansion, meet people from Washington’s world, and enjoy treats for your pup while supplies last. This event is for pups and their humans only.

Admission: Included with admission to Mount Vernon

November

Horses & Hounds: Nov. 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Watch a simulated fox hunt demonstration on the estate of the Father of the American foxhound. Unlike in Washington’s time, no foxes will be hurt during this demonstration. A bag containing animal scent will be taken on a course and when one hound picks up the scent, the hunt is on. Observe a cavalry demonstration before meeting the breeds that Washington loved so much. Learn about the role these animals played in the American Revolution and even meet Nelson, a horse similar to Washington’s beloved warhorse.

Admission: Included with admission to Mount Vernon

George Washington Whiskey Festival: Nov. 9, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Join Mount Vernon for the new George Washington Whiskey Festival. Enjoy spirits from Virginia craft distillers and other famous whiskey producers while meeting celebrated distillers and learning more about George Washington’s whiskey operations at Mount Vernon.

Admission: $85-$225.

Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans: Nov. 11, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mount Vernon will offer free admission for all active duty, former, or retired military personnel. Throughout the day, write a thank you letter to an active duty service member in the Vaughan Lobby. Honored guests are also invited to place a flower at Washington’s Tomb. Visit the Smith Auditorium at 11 a.m. for a performance by the Harmony Heritage Singers. A concert by the United States Air Force Strings Orchestra will take place at 3 p.m. Martha Washington will also be on site to greet our veterans.

Admission: Included with admission to Mount Vernon