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George Washington’s Mount Vernon is welcoming spring with a new outdoor beer garden, 28 newborn lambs and a packed schedule of events tied to the country’s 250th anniversary.
The 500-acre estate is entering its first warm-weather season since its centerpiece mansion reopened in December following a two-year renovation. The property served as Washington’s home before and after his presidency.
Mount Vernon President and CEO Douglas Bradburn said spring played a defining role for Washington and the Continental Army, marking the beginning of campaigns that influenced the Revolution. He said the season’s programming will connect visitors with both everyday life at the estate and pivotal moments in the nation’s founding.
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant at 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway has expanded its seasonal offerings with an outdoor beer garden serving local craft beer, wine, prepared sandwiches, snacks and shareable dishes.
The beer garden is open from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays. Visitors do not need estate admission to enter.
At Mount Vernon’s working farm, guests can meet 28 newborn lambs named for Revolutionary War battles, including Yorktown, Lexington and Concord.
The spring calendar also includes Revolutionary War Weekend on May 2 and 3 and the annual Mount Vernon Wine Festival from May 15 through May 17, along with author lectures and book discussions.
Mount Vernon members can explore the grounds and historic areas during Mount Vernon After Hours on April 25.
Beginning May 2, George Washington Whiskey Tastings will offer samples of spirits made with 18th-century distilling techniques. Mount Vernon also plans to release limited-edition whiskeys throughout the nation’s 250th-anniversary year.
The Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant will hold a Mother’s Day brunch buffet on May 10 and afternoon teas May 15 through May 17. The teas will feature a selected menu of teas, pastries and light fare.
A Mixed Container Workshop on May 15 and 16 will teach participants how to select and arrange summer annuals with moss and birch-twig accents.
Historian H. W. Brands will visit June 2 to discuss his new book, American Patriarch: The Life of George Washington, about Washington’s leadership during the country’s founding. A book signing and reception featuring beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will follow.