Following a resolution of Congress on October 3, 1789, President George Washington proclaimed Thursday, November 26, 1789, a day of “public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted to “the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be.” In setting aside a day for Thanksgiving, Washington established a non-sectarian tone for these devotions. This tone stressed political, moral, and intellectual blessings that make self-government, and personal and national repentance possible. Hear from President Washington on the 235th anniversary of this day of Thanksgiving.
Other Experiences
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Performance: Merriment and Measles
Join the Washingtons on the eve of Twelfth Night in 1760 as they reflect on the past year and their hopes for the future in the midst of a measles outbreak at Mount Vernon.
Art Museums Admission
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Traditions Grand Illumination Dinner
Savor a buffet dinner at Traditions in the Williamsburg Lodge before experiencing the Grand Illumination Fireworks.
Open to the Public
Event Ticket
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Holiday Choral Concert - Manassas Chorale
Enjoy the blend of voices as the Manassas Chorale from Northern Virginia, directed by Becky Verner, presents a Holiday Concert.
Open to the Public