Happy Birthday, George!

Did you celebrate Presidents’ Day on Monday? What we were actually, legally and officially celebrating was George Washington’s Birthday — hence the annual George Washington Birthday Parade that drew crowds to Old Town despite the clouds.There is some confusion about what Presidents’ Day really means. People generally use it as a day to pay respects to all of our presidents, at monuments and the National Portrait Gallery, through history lessons, and more. Since the legal term for the holiday is actually Washington’s Birthday and since his actual birthday is tomorrow (February 22nd), we wanted to be sure to give the original Founding Father his due. By sharing our favorite memories and events at his beloved estate, we’re highlighting the many ways in which his local legacy lives on. Phyllis: I like hanging with George and Martha and touring their house. Britt: The wine festival, the Masquerade Party, the holiday fireworks…don’t make me choose! The Holiday Celebration has the best fireworks in Northern Virginia, hands down. You can see them from all the way down the Parkway and across the river, too! Melissa: I was a hostess in the restaurant in high school and had to wear the colonial outfit…doily on my head and everything! Joanne: I love the wine festival — the view, and sitting on a blanket enjoying great Virginia wines with friends. Also, the 4th of July fireworks on the water. Watching from the boat is beautiful and very special. Maria: I love the Mount Vernon Underground Annual Masquerade Party. Fireworks over the river, live music, and dancing.Susie: I used to look forward to class field trips to Mount Vernon in elementary school. Now, I look forward to the wine festival! Mount Vernon is fun for all ages!