Arnold Schwarzenegger to Headline Mount Vernon’s July 4 Naturalization Ceremony
Former California Governor and Immigrant Success Story to Celebrate New Citizens at George Washington’s Historic Estate Near Alexandria
ALEXANDRIA, VA — This Independence Day, a familiar face will help ring in America’s birthday at one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. Arnold Schwarzenegger—actor, former California governor, and proud U.S. citizen—will serve as the keynote speaker at George Washington’s Mount Vernon during the annual July 4th naturalization ceremony.
The ceremony, held on the Bowling Green at Mount Vernon, draws thousands each year. This year, it will feature the swearing-in of dozens of new American citizens, a fitting celebration at the historic estate of the nation’s first president.
Schwarzenegger, who immigrated to the United States from Austria in 1968 and became a citizen in 1983, called the opportunity to speak at Mount Vernon “an honor” and emphasized his gratitude to the country that gave him a second home.
“I’m so proud to be embraced by the American people,” he said during an appearance on The View. “In no other country in the world could you go from being a farm boy to a bodybuilding champion, movie star, and governor. That’s the American dream.”
Local residents can expect the ceremony to draw attention to themes of opportunity, patriotism, and civic unity—values deeply woven into Alexandria’s own diverse and historic fabric. Mount Vernon officials noted that Schwarzenegger’s appearance ties the celebration directly to the legacy of George Washington and the enduring symbolism of the estate as a beacon of American democracy.
Schwarzenegger also used the platform to encourage respect for the immigration process, saying immigrants should honor their new home with the same care as “a guest in someone’s house.”
Officials at George Washington’s Mount Vernon confirmed with The Zebra today that Schwarzenegger is the keynote speaker on July 4, and promised more details will be forthcoming soon.
The naturalization ceremony at Mount Vernon is free with estate admission and includes daytime fireworks, military performances, and other family-friendly activities—making it a meaningful and accessible destination for Alexandrians looking to celebrate the Fourth of July.
For details, visit MountVernon.org.
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