On September 19-20, you can watch sword-swallowers, fire-eaters, magicians, and other 18th-century entertainers take the stage for lively performances. The fair also features some of the nation’s top craftspeople demonstrating weaving, basket-making, wood-carving, and other fine arts, with beautiful and one-of-a-kind pieces available for purchase.
For history buffs, General George Washington will be on hand to oversee action-packed Revolutionary War military drills, complete with cavalry demonstrations and cannon fire. Specialty foods—including homemade breads and chocolate crafted with 18th-century recipes—are also available for sale on site.
Photography buffs won’t want to miss our special presentation on the early, challenging, and amazing history of photography at Mount Vernon. On Saturday at 1 p.m., Bob Zeller, one of America’s leading experts on early photography, and Mount Vernon staff will lead a discussion on the estate’s rich collection of early photographs, followed by an optional walking tour.
Want to see Mount Vernon from a new angle? This weekend only, 40-minute sightseeing cruises on the Potomac River are free of charge while supplies last, courtesy of Spirit Cruises and Potomac Riverboat Company.
The Colonial Market & Fair takes place September 19-20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is included in general admission.
