Overlooking the Potomac River, the east lawn of the beautiful
Mount Vernon Estate hosts the celebration of the history of the Virginia wine industry. From the 3rd to the 5th of October the Fall Wine Festival is held regardless of rain or shine. This year is no exception with the Fall Wine Festival all set to happen from the 3rd of October to the 5th from 6 p.m. till 9 p.m. Patrons and connoisseurs can sample wines from 16 award winning wineries from across Virginia, discover the successes and failures of the endeavors of the Founding fathers of Virginia's wine history, listen to live blues and 'meet' George Washington on the Mansion's piazza.
Enjoy the spectacular views around the estate and tour the beautiful former home of George Washington, by candlelight at the fall celebration. You are even invited to explore the basement cellar vaults where he stored his wine. These vaults are seldom open to public viewing. Tickets are available on sale from the 1st of September at Mount Vernon's main gate and at the Ford Orientation Center. It is suggested that you book your tickets well in advance and will cost you $30 per person.
The Shops at
Mount Vernon will be open for early Christmas shopping. You can avail Private Tables seating 12 guests plus admission, fruit and cheese platters,
Mount Vernon wine bottles and VIP table service for $750. These tables overlook the Potomac River. Interested parties should contact the
Mount Vernon Voice Mail Reservation Line to make reservations.
The Fall Festival also offers picnic on the lawn with a delicious assortment of fruits, cheese, summer sausage, crackers, wine biscuits and Virginia peanuts. You can find these scrumptious Fruit and Cheese boxes waiting packed and ready for you on arrival. Costing $24 each and serving two, these are packaged for lounging on the lawn or for carrying around the tent. They are available by advance purchase only. You can enjoy a variety of hot and cold food and desserts including baguettes, gourmet sandwiches, and specialty sweets from the
Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant and Firehook Bakery Concessions.
The festival is a light and fun affair though it still upholds strict restrictions. The Mansion, basement wine cellar, and outbuildings are open during the festival but the farmer site; wharf and tomb are completely out of bounds and closed. No outside food or beverages are allowed at any cost, neither are pets. You can bring along blankets or small lawn chairs (no tables) to sit on the east lawn. No seating will be provided. Though
Mount Vernon is a non-smoking site, a designated smoking area is created near the Ladies room. Those who do not comply with these rules are escorted off the site. The festival is an adult event and you will be required to show valid photo id's to consume alcohol. Under age members and designated drivers shall receive a commemorative item and unlimited Coca Cola soft drinks. Tickets are mandatory for admission unless you are under one year of age.
