Upcoming Events
Dig Day at the Monument
Saturday, August 29, 2026
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mary Washington Monument Site
We’re getting ready to break ground at the Mary Washington Monument, and before work begins, we’re inviting garden enthusiasts to join us for Dig Day at the Monument! Bring your own shovel and choose from available plants to dig up and take home for free. Plants are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of four plants per person. The event will be held on Saturday, August 29th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please bring bags, tarps, or other materials to safely transport your plants.
Come early, bring your shovel, and take home a living piece of Mary Washington history to grow in your own yard!
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FIRST FRIDAY: Sip, Stroll and Stay for the History!
Friday, September 4, 2026
5 to 8 p.m.
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Sip, stroll and stay for history on September 4th during a special First Friday event at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. Between the hours of 5 to 8 p.m., we are thrilled to welcome 1781 Brewing Company who will offer four authentic farmhouse ales for sale in the garden at the Apothecary.
Then, stay for a little history with a lively “Brew Talk” exploring beer’s surprising role in everyday life during the Revolutionary era. Discover what people were drinking in 1781—and why beer was often more than just a pleasure. Set inside one of Fredericksburg’s most historic sites, this event blends craft beer and Revolutionary-era culture for an evening that is equal parts flavorful, fascinating, and fun.
No reservations are required to enjoy a beer in the Apothecary garden. However, space is limited inside for the Brew Talk, so we ask that you reserve your spot at the link below. There is no admission charge for the Brew Talk, though a suggested donation of $2.50/person is appreciated in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
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Traditional Hearth Cooking Demonstration
Saturday, September 12, 2026
11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Join Washington Heritage Museums and the Slave Dwelling Project for a hearth-cooking demonstration at the Mary Washington House, exploring the culinary knowledge and skilled labor of the enslaved cooks who shaped colonial foodways. Living historians will prepare period dishes over an open hearth using traditional techniques and tools, while sharing the stories and lived experiences of the enslaved men and women whose expertise sustained households like this one.
The demonstration will also examine the household hierarchy behind the kitchen: as mistress of the house, Mary Washington would have controlled access to costly imported spices and ingredients, doling them out and often directing recipes from her own household receipt book — while the enslaved cooks carried out the true skilled labor of transforming those rationed ingredients into meals, drawing on techniques and knowledge of their own.
This special regional collaboration brings together historic sites in Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania with the national Slave Dwelling Project for a powerful series of talks, tours, and living history demonstrations. Together, these programs advance the Slave Dwelling Project’s mission to preserve, honor, and bring greater visibility to the too-often-overlooked stories of enslaved people at historic sites across the country.
Event is free and open to the public. No RSVP required but encouraged. The Mary Washington House will provide complimentary tours throughout the day.
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Tea Talk: Susanna’s Midnight Ride
Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Noon to 2 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Experience the drama and danger of the American Revolution during the first Tea Talk of our Fall series. Join us in the beautiful garden of the Mary Washington House as we welcome Libby Carty McNamee—award-winning historical fiction author, speaker, lawyer, and historian—for a captivating presentation on Susanna Bolling, the courageous Virginia teenager whose daring midnight ride helped warn General Lafayette of a British plot. Libby will bring Susanna’s remarkable story to life and share how her research and advocacy helped inspire statewide recognition for this young heroine.
Enjoy a beautiful afternoon in the garden with hot tea, savories, sweets, and an unforgettable story of courage, danger, and determination.
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Pirates and Punch at the Rising Sun Tavern
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6:00 and 7:30 p.m.
Step into our historic Federal-era tavern and immerse yourself in the golden age of piracy and privateering. Throughout the evening, you will hear tales of pirates and poachers who once ruled the waterways, while enjoying historically inspired punches and light fare.
As the night unfolds, the Rappahannock Whalers will bring the tavern to life with raucous sea shanties—performed as they were in the age of sail. This event is limited to guests aged 21+.
Mary’s Ribbons – Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 1 to 31, 2026
Daily: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
This October, we invite you to remember and honor the brave individuals who have faced breast cancer – and those who continue the fight today. It was here, in 1789, that Mary Ball Washington passed away after a long and painful battle with breast cancer. Guests are encouraged to tie a pink ribbon in front of the historic Mary Washington House. This simple, heartfelt gesture raises awareness and offers space for personal remembrance.
SPEAKER SERIES: The Two Mercers
Thursday, October 1, 2026
10 to 11 a.m.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library
Historian Trip Wiggins will explore the possible connection between Dr. Hugh Mercer and the Honorable James Mercer in this engaging presentation about two remarkable historical figures who were far more than simply a country doctor and a lawyer. Free and open to the public.
Bourbon and Boxwood
Saturday, October 3, 2026
6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Raise a glass to 250 years as we honor America's legacy! Washington Heritage Museums announces the eleventh annual Bourbon and Boxwood event, on October 3, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. (Please note the new time!) This year, we are proudly celebrating the historic 250th anniversaries of both Virginia and the United States, and we hope you will join us for this grand event. Bourbon and Boxwood, the name, evokes George Washington’s success as a distiller and Mary Washington’s love of boxwood gardens. Bourbon and Boxwood, the event, is a beautiful garden party that brings together dedicated supporters from near and far, featuring live music, plentiful food and drinks, and a silent auction. Most importantly, this event serves as an outstanding way to financially support all five of WHM’s historic properties and their beneficial educational programs. Washington Heritage Museums is truly grateful to all our donors and sponsors. Your individual generosity and corporate partnerships are crucial to the success of WHM. Your support is essential for the preservation of these historic museums, educational programs, and ongoing research that delves into the stories and lives that have shaped this great nation. WHM does not receive ongoing city, state, or federal funds; our operations are entirely funded through the generosity of donations, sponsorships, grants, memberships, and museum admissions. We invite you to make a meaningful impact by choosing to sponsor the Bourbon and Boxwood event. Your sponsorship not only supports this community and these museums but also ensures the preservation of our shared history. Be sure to explore the 2026 Sponsorship Packet for detailed information on how you can be part of this extraordinary event.
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St. James’ House Spring Opening
Monday, October 5th to Saturday, October 10th
1 to 4 p.m. daily
St. James' House
Among Fredericksburg’s most treasured landmarks stands St. James’ House, an elegant example of colonial architecture and a living testament to the city’s vibrant history. We are thrilled to invite you to our special Fall Opening to enjoy the enduring charm of one of the city’s most historic homes. Built in the 1760s by James Mercer, St. James’ House is one of the city’s best-preserved colonial dwellings. With its period furniture and stunning art, the home offers visitors a rare glimpse into 18th-century life in Virginia. Enjoy guided tours and experience the beauty of the fall season in this historic gem. Admission: $10 Tickets may be purchased on-site or in advance (on-line sales will be available Monday, September 21, 2026).
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TEA TALK - Saving America's Revolutionary Past: Women in Preservation
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Mary Washington House
Join us for a very special Tea Talk on Tuesday, October 20th as we welcome public historian Amanda H. Roper. Amanda will explore the often-overlooked role women have played in preserving America’s historic places, cultural heritage and collective memory. From George Washington’s Mount Vernon to the Mary Washington House and the Mary Washington Monument, Amanda will reveal how women have protected not only treasured landmarks, but also the voices, identities, and experiences that connect past and present.
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Homeschool History Day
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Discover colonial life at our first annual Homeschool History Day—your passport to the past! Washington Heritage Museums invites homeschool families with students ages 6 and up to enjoy immersive, educator-led tours at our three historic sites: Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Mary Washington House and Rising Sun Tavern.
In celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary, students and educators may visit one, two, or all three museums for just $2.50 per person, per museum. Interpreters wearing period attire will engage with students as they explore different facets of colonial life, offering a glimpse into Revolutionary-era Fredericksburg, Virginia.
SPEAKER SERIES: A Colonial Virginia Fashion Show
Thursday, November 5, 2026
10 to 11 a.m.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library
Presented by members of the Rappahannock Colonial Heritage Society. Discover wht people in the Fredericksburg are wore in the 18th century, with period fashions for men and women. Free and open to the public.
SPEAKER SERIES: The Past, Present and Future
Thursday, December 3, 2026
10 to 11 a.m.
Central Rappahannock Regional Library
Learn how Washington Heritage Museums has evolved, what it offers today, and its plans for the future. Gail Braxton, Anne Darron, and Michael O’Malley will share insights into the organization’s history, programs, and vision for preserving and interpreting local heritage. Includes the WHM Annual Meeting. Free and open to the public.