Colonial Market, Fair Delights with 18th-Century Entertainment, Marketplace

From George Washington's Mount Vernon:

Mount Vernon recreates a lively, early-American marketplace with demonstrations, crafts and entertainment at its Colonial Market and Fair on Saturday, Sept. 17 and Sunday, Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. More than 40 juried artisans from across the nation will demonstrate their trades and sell their wares while two stages of family entertainment delight audiences with 18th-century amusements. Try your hand at 18th-century cricket! Demonstrations and cricket games will be played throughout the weekend.

Mount Vernon’s Colonial Market and Fair is the most authentic and diverse event of its kind, bringing together distinguished artisans working in colonial attire and a dozen entertainers who recreate the amusements loved by early Americans. As visitors shop, artisans demonstrate their crafts and explain the historic trades used to make items similar to those George Washington purchased in the 18th century.

General Washington will preside over a host of amusements, including Mr. Bayly, Conjuring and Entertainments; Signora Bella, Equilibrist; Professor Thompson S. Gunn, Mystic Arts of Asia, the Far East and India and more! Fair fare will be available from the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant concession stands.

Free Potomac River sightseeing cruises are available while supplies last. Costumed interpreters will be demonstrating the 18th-century chocolate-making process, using an authentic colonial recipe!

The event is included with regular admission: $20 for adults, $10 for youths age 6-11 and free for children 5 years old and younger.

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