Mount Vernon Revolutionary War Weekend

Revolutionary War Weekend at Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon turns its 12-acre field into a full Revolutionary War encampment for one weekend. Soldiers in Continental, British, and Hessian uniforms set up tents, run musket drills, and fire cannons while kids watch from the sidelines. There's a youth muster on the bowling green where kids can try marching drills, and General Washington himself (well, a very convincing reenactor) gives a speech with the Marquis de Lafayette at 1pm both days.

This is part of the America 250 celebration, so the programming is bigger than usual. Beyond the military stuff, you can walk the mansion and grounds, see the farm animals, and explore the new museum. It's a full day if you let it be. Fair warning: the estate is large and mostly outdoors, so come with comfortable shoes and a plan for shade breaks.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Get there at opening (9am): The parking lot fills fast on event weekends. Early arrival also means cooler temps and shorter lines for the mansion tour.
• ✓The cannon firings are loud: If your kid is noise-sensitive, bring ear protection or watch from further back. The sound carries across the field.
• ✓Pack lunch or plan for the food court: There's a sit-down restaurant and a food court on site. Prices are what you'd expect at a historic site — not cheap, but fine.
• ✓Wear comfortable shoes: The grounds are large and hilly. Strollers work on main paths but not on the grassy encampment field.
• ✓Don't skip the museum: The interactive exhibits in the museum and education center are well done and air-conditioned — a good midday break.
• ✓Buy tickets online in advance: This event sells out. Online tickets also let you skip the ticket line at the entrance.