Colonial Market & Fair

Mount Vernon Colonial Market & Fair 2026

For one September weekend, costumed artisans set up tents at George Washington's Mount Vernon and work their trades the 18th-century way. Kids can watch blacksmithing, weaving, pottery, and woodworking up close, ask questions, and browse the handmade results: ceramics, glasswork, textiles, soap, wooden toys. Colonial music, games, and demonstrations run through both days, 9am to 5pm.

Your admission covers the whole estate, so the fair stacks on top of the mansion grounds, the gardens, the farm animals, and the museum galleries. That makes it a full-day outing if you want one. Adults are $30, kids 6 to 11 are $16, and ages 5 and under get in free, which keeps the math reasonable for toddler families. Go at 9am: parking is free but the lots fill, the artisans have time to chat before crowds build, and a September morning on the Potomac beats a September afternoon.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Arrive at 9am: cooler temps, easy parking, and artisans who have time to show your kid exactly how the bellows work before the crowds arrive.
• ✓Decide on the mansion tour early: if you want to go inside the mansion, check whether a timed ticket is required when you buy admission, and do it first. Lines grow by 11am.
• ✓Wear real walking shoes: the estate is big and hilly, and the fair itself is on grass. Sandals will be regretted.
• ✓Let each kid pick one small souvenir: the artisan stalls beat any gift shop, and small wooden toys are a good budget target.
• ✓Eat before noon: between fair vendors and the on-site food court you're covered, but lines are shortest before the midday rush.
• ✓Bring water bottles and hats: September sun along the Potomac is stronger than it looks, and there are fountains on site for refills.