The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Dorchester is celebrating this Presidents’ Day with a series of free online programs, despite remaining closed to the public on weekdays due to COVID.
"When you learn about this country's history, you are taking part in strengthening democracy and you can think about how to participate in our government and hold it and our leaders — past and present — accountable to the American people," said Alan Price, the museum's director, in a prerecorded welcome video.
This year marks the sixtieth anniversary of the televised White House tour led by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who burnished the Camelot brand and who, well before social media, mastered the art of self-branding.
“I feel so strongly that the White House should have as fine a collection of American pictures as possible,” the first lady said, offering Americans a first glimpse at the newly renovated residence. “This house will always grow and should. It’s so important the setting in which the presidency is presented to the world, to foreign visitors – the American people should be proud of it.”
In that spirit, the museum is highlighting life in the White House with presidential re-enactors, including President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams, speaking from the perspective of their time.
Concerts will also feature Kennedy campaign songs performed by Harvard’s a cappella group the Din & Tonics.
You can find more details at jfklibrary.org
The museum is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Advanced tickets are required.
