Upcoming Events
An Evening of Absinthe at the Apothecary
Friday, August 7, 2026
5 and 7 p.m.
Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Step into the fascinating world of absinthe during this immersive evening that blends history, horticulture, and hands‑on learning. The experience unfolds in three engaging parts, beginning with a guided garden tour where you’ll discover the plants traditionally used to make absinthe, including anise, fennel, wormwood, lemon balm, and hyssop.
From there, explore the rich history of absinthe—from its origins as a medicinal to its evolution into the iconic green liquor. Along the way, common myths surrounding absinthe will be dispelled, shedding light on how and why it gained its mysterious reputation.
The evening concludes with a demonstration of how absinthe is made, followed by a tasting of absinthe accompanied by a simple charcuterie-style spread of cheese and crackers. This is a unique opportunity to learn how a once‑forbidden spirit was crafted, used, and enjoyed through the centuries.
This is an adult 21+ event with two sessions: 5 to 6:30 p.m. and 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $30.00 each and non-refundable after four days of purchase.
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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+.
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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Homeschool History Day
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
10 a.m. to 4 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.
Look for more information and ticket sales beginning on June 15, 2026!