<bt>Historic Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, salutes our first commander-in-chief with a display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes a naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last), and a visit from the "first" first couple, "General and Mrs. Washington." All events are included in regular Estate admission: adults, $15; children ages 6-11, $7; and children under 5 are admitted free. Go to Visit.MountVernon.org for more information.
<cl>Mount Vernon’s Schedule of Events:
<bt>9:30 a.m.: General Washington's Inspection of the Troops. Reading of the Declaration of Independence and a demonstration by the First Virginia Regiment on the Bowling Green.
10 a.m.: Annual Independence Day Wreathlaying. A ceremonial wreathlaying at Washington's Tomb by the George Washington Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.
11 a.m.: United States Citizenship & Immigration Services Naturalization Ceremony. A special Independence Day naturalization ceremony for America's 100 newest citizens near the Mansion.
12 p.m.: "Red, White, and Blue" Concert. Patriotic performance by the National Concert Band of America on the Bowling Green.
12:45 p.m.: Pyrotechnic Salute to America. Unique daytime fireworks display over the Potomac River.
1 p.m.: "Happy Birthday, America" Cake. Birthday cake on the Bowling Green (while supplies last).
1:30 p.m.: Revolutionary War Military Music. Demonstration by the First Virginia Regiment on the Bowling Green.
2:30 p.m.: Revolutionary War Military Drill. Demonstration by the First Virginia Regiment on the Bowling Green.
* Summer Farm Life: July has always been a time of celebration at George Washington’s farm as it marks the beginning of the wheat harvest season. To celebrate Washington the farmer, field hands will kick-off the season on Independence Day with wheat-treading demonstrations at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site. Costumed staff will lead Mount Vernon’s horses as they tread wheat in the 16-sided barn at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Visitors can witness Washington’s innovative treading process, learning first-hand how Washington separated grain from straw.