We track 1 display in Mount Vernon. Every one of them is free to visit.
Displays here switch on around sunset. In Mount Vernon that means about 4:47 PM in early December and 4:48 PM by mid-month — the earliest sunsets of the year fall right in the middle of lights season. It is properly dark by about 5:18 PM, which is when the displays look their best. December nights in Mount Vernon typically drop to around 28°F.
| Date | Sunset | Fully dark |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 | 4:47 PM | 5:17 PM |
| Dec 15 | 4:48 PM | 5:18 PM |
| Dec 25 | 4:52 PM | 5:22 PM |
Freeattractioncandlelit estate toursfireworks over the PotomacAladdin the Christmas Camel18th-century holiday traditionsspiced cider
George Washington's estate hosts candlelit evening tours exploring 18th-century Virginia holiday customs, plus an Illuminations weekend that ends with fireworks over the Potomac River. Visitors can meet Aladdin the Christmas Camel, dance in the greenhouse, and sip spiced cider.
✓ Verified 2025-2026
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