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>> CHRISTMAS AT MOUNT VERNON OFFERS ONCE-A-YEAR FUN

November 26, 2009 2:25 am

BY COLLETTE CAPRARA

FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR

For families wishing to show out-of-town visitors some historic fun--and for parents looking for enjoyable, educational activities for children during the holiday vacations--Christmas at Mount Vernon, debuting tomorrow, is made to order.

Visitors at the Washingtons' estate will experience the enchanting atmosphere of Christmastime at the mansion, which is bedecked with hand-cut greenery for the holidays, much as it was in the 18th century when George and Martha Washington entertained a steady stream of guests.

Adding to the authenticity, the table in the formal dining room will be set with an elaborate meal, with Martha's "great cake" taking center stage. (Though the first lady's original recipe called for 40 eggs, visitors can take home an updated version of the recipe better suited for today's ovens.)

The enticing fragrance of rich chocolate will waft through the air, as costumed chocolatiers ply their skills, grinding and melting the cocoa beans, creating samples of the popular colonial treat from an authentic recipe of the 1700s. (Chocolate bars, sticks and a spiced-drink mix will also be available for purchase at the estate).

Most exciting, the Christmas Camel will be making his second appearance at the estate, recalling the 1787 holiday when Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to the grounds to delight his guests.

In addition to the colonial decorations, more than 100 poinsettias will line the estate's hallways and pathways--and 12 Christmas trees will add cheer to the orientation and education centers, each adorned with themed ornaments, including doves of peace, Mount Vernon architecture, George Washington's study and miniatures of items owned by Martha Washington.

The magnificent highlight of the decorations will be a 2-foot by 5-foot gingerbread replica of Mount Vernon, created by longtime White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier. It includes such details as miniature paintings on the walls and marzipan figures of the Washingtons.

"It will be fun-filled and festive," said Mount Vernon spokesperson Melissa Wood. "I think that everyone is going to be excited about the holidays, and about learning more about history after leaving Mount Vernon."

Holiday activities will include colonial dance demonstrations and lessons for visitors wishing to kick up their heels to the Virginia Reel as well.

Saturday story times for children, conveyed by dramatic storytellers in colonial costume, will feature Aesop's fables, reported to be among Washington's favorites as a young boy.

Visitors will also be invited to tour the third floor of the mansion (which is closed to the public at other times of the year), where Martha lived after her beloved husband passed away.

In addition, enchanting candlelight tours of the mansion will be offered throughout the holidays. And families can enjoy hot cider, cookies and caroling by a roaring bonfire, where a servant will meet them and guide them by lantern up the pathway to the mansion.

Martha will personally greet them and reminisce about holidays with the Washington household.

"Mount Vernon by Candlelight" is the only time of the year when the estate is open to the public in the evening hours.

Even families who can't make the trip to Mount Vernon can experience the fun and fascination of the estate, through two newly launched Web sites. One of the sites, marthawashingon.us, provides an in-depth biography of our nation's first first lady, and includes educational resources that teachers and parents can download.

And washingtonsworld.org offers a host of challenging interactive activities. These include a scavenger hunt on the grounds and a take-off on today's "Guitar Hero" called "Harpsichord Hero," where visitors use their keyboard to track notes on the screen. (Any slip-ups will bring dismay and head-shaking among the Washingtons and their guests who are eager to dance to the music!)

Visitors to the site can also try their hand at targeting a cannon toward British forts and frigates. (Gen. Washington himself will be observing players' progress, giving a thumbs-up in the case of success and, otherwise, suggesting that the young shooters try his spectacles.)

Collette Caprara is a local artist and freelance writer.