Free Presidential Tributes and Major Art Exhibitions Today
Presidents' Day at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
To celebrate the birth of the nation’s first president, Mount Vernon is offering free admission to the public today, Monday, February 16, 2026. The estate is hosting a full day of patriotic programming from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Highlights include a moving wreath-laying ceremony at George Washington’s Tomb starting at 10:00 a.m., featuring a musical prelude and a reading of Washington's Prayer for His Country by a military chaplain. Following the ceremony, visitors can head to the bowling green at 10:30 a.m. for a tactical firing demonstration and military narration by the Commander in Chief’s Guard. For those interested in a personal encounter with history, an actor portraying General Washington will be available for a meet-and-greet at the Interpretive Center between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Local fife and drum corps will provide a musical backdrop throughout the afternoon.
Masterpieces at the National Portrait Gallery
The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery is a premier destination today, remaining open from 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. with no admission fee. This is a final opportunity to view the highly acclaimed exhibition, Amy Sherald: American Sublime, which is in its closing week. The exhibition features the artist’s iconic portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama alongside new and rarely seen works. Additionally, the permanent America’s Presidents gallery remains a focal point for holiday visitors, housing the nation’s only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House. Guests can also explore the Outwin 2025: American Portraiture Today exhibition, which showcases 35 juried portraits highlighting contemporary American life.
Historical Meetups and Tours in Alexandria
In nearby Old Town Alexandria, the George Washington Birthday Celebration continues with specialized community events. While the main parade was held over the weekend, today features the George Washington Symposium from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., focusing on the architectural and historical legacy of the region. For fans of musical history and the Revolutionary era, the Hamilton’s BFFs & Frenemies Tour takes place from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., exploring the relationships between Alexander Hamilton and other founding figures at local historic sites. Several local museums, including the Friendship Firehouse Museum, are also holding special holiday hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Presidents' Day Mass at the Cathedral
For those looking for a quiet community gathering, the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle is holding a special Presidents' Day Mass and Reception starting early at 7:00 a.m. This annual tradition offers a space for reflection on the nation's leadership and is open to all members of the public.