George Washington’s Birthday Celebration

10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m

The official presidential wreath-laying ceremony at George Washington’s Tomb

10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Watch a public ceremony on the Bowling Green that features a tactical demonstration by the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard and a musical demonstration by The Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps.

This annual demonstration includes narration by a representative of The Old Guard.

1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

A second musical demonstration by The Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps on the Bowling Green.

This encore performance allows us to remember the first public celebration of Washington’s birthday in 1778 at Valley Forge when the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard surprised General Washington with a special musical performance.

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Watch our Historic Trades team demonstrate how to make hoecakes (the General’s favorite breakfast) on the 12-Acre Field.

11 a.m., 1 p.m.

Meet General Washington on the 12-Acre field to wish him well on his natal day.

7 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate George Washington’s 290th birthday with a virtual birthday party on Feb. 22!

Patriots from across the country will gather in the comfort of their own homes to salute George Washington: A Man of Firsts, with an online program featuring:

• historians Joseph J. Ellis and Nathaniel Philbrick discussing why Washington matters today
• the first look at the film for our museum exhibition Mount Vernon: American Icon
• an excerpt from a classical music concert on the piazza
• a spectacular fireworks show over the Potomac
• a birthday toast delivered to General Washington

Register for the virtual celebration here.

Join us at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant for a special Presidents Day buffet, Feb. 21 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Feb. 22. (11 a.m. to 8 p.m.)

$25 per person (tax and gratuity not included.)

Walk-ins only; reservations not accepted.