George Washington’s Mount Vernon Sets New Attendance Record on Presidents Day

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- On the national observance of George Washington’s 285th birthday, Monday, Feb. 20, a record-smashing number of guests visited the estate of the first president. Mount Vernon welcomed 22,170 visitors paying their respects to George Washington on his observed birthday, the estate announced Tuesday. This number marks the highest amount of guests known to visit the estate on one day in the more than 160 years that the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association has owned and operated Mount Vernon.

On the national observance of Washington’s birthday, the estate offered free admission paired with dynamic programming, including a moving wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake, military demonstrations and appearances from General and Martha Washington.

Mount Vernon’s website also received a notable increase in traffic on the holiday– posting its highest single day visitation ever with more than 64,000 web user sessions. Over the past year, Mount Vernon has updated its digital offerings, with an expanded virtual tour and a new Constitution video, A More Perfect Union, for those who are unable to visit the estate in person.

Mount Vernon will also offer free admission and special programming on Wednesday, Feb. 22, George Washington’s actual birthday.

As a private non-profit, George Washington’s Mount Vernon does not accept government funding and relies solely upon donations, ticket and gift shop revenue to support its educational mission.

PHOTO: Crowds, including "Martha Washington," enjoyed beautiful weather in addition to free attendance at Mount Vernon Monday. Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon