>> CHRISTMAS AT MOUNT VERNON OFFERS ONCE-A-YEAR FUN

Christmas at Mount Vernon will entertain local families and their out-of-town guests

Date published: 11/26/2009

BY COLLETTE CAPRARA

FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR

For families wishing to show out-of-town visitors some historic fun--and for parents looking for enjoyable, educational activities for children during the holiday vacations--Christmas at Mount Vernon, debuting tomorrow, is made to order.

Visitors at the Washingtons' estate will experience the enchanting atmosphere of Christmastime at the mansion, which is bedecked with hand-cut greenery for the holidays, much as it was in the 18th century when George and Martha Washington entertained a steady stream of guests.

Adding to the authenticity, the table in the formal dining room will be set with an elaborate meal, with Martha's "great cake" taking center stage. (Though the first lady's original recipe called for 40 eggs, visitors can take home an updated version of the recipe better suited for today's ovens.)

The enticing fragrance of rich chocolate will waft through the air, as costumed chocolatiers ply their skills, grinding and melting the cocoa beans, creating samples of the popular colonial treat from an authentic recipe of the 1700s. (Chocolate bars, sticks and a spiced-drink mix will also be available for purchase at the estate).

Most exciting, the Christmas Camel will be making his second appearance at the estate, recalling the 1787 holiday when Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to the grounds to delight his guests.

In addition to the colonial decorations, more than 100 poinsettias will line the estate's hallways and pathways--and 12 Christmas trees will add cheer to the orientation and education centers, each adorned with themed ornaments, including doves of peace, Mount Vernon architecture, George Washington's study and miniatures of items owned by Martha Washington.

The magnificent highlight of the decorations will be a 2-foot by 5-foot gingerbread replica of Mount Vernon, created by longtime White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier. It includes such details as miniature paintings on the walls and marzipan figures of the Washingtons.

"It will be fun-filled and festive," said Mount Vernon spokesperson Melissa Wood. "I think that everyone is going to be excited about the holidays, and about learning more about history after leaving Mount Vernon."

Holiday activities will include colonial dance demonstrations and lessons for visitors wishing to kick up their heels to the Virginia Reel as well.

Saturday story times for children, conveyed by dramatic storytellers in colonial costume, will feature Aesop's fables, reported to be among Washington's favorites as a young boy.

What: Mount Vernon at Christmas celebration When: Today through Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Storytelling and colonial dance demonstrations at scheduled times. Candlelight tours, Friday-Sunday through Dec. 13, 5-8 p.m. Where: George Washington's Mount Vernon estate, at the southern end of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, eight miles south of Old Town Alexandria. Cost: Adults $15; children ages 5-11, $7. Candlelight tours: adults $18; children 11 and under $12. Info: 703/780-2000; mountvernon.org

Follow us on

Date published: 11/26/2009