Presidential Pets Party at the JFK Library

Get ready for a howling good time at the JFK Library on September 25! We'll be hosting a Presidential Pets Party celebrating the animals in who barked, purred, squawked, tweeted, or waddled their way into presidential history. Visitors can come try our pet-inspired maker activities, discover what historical White House pet matches their personality, attend a pet-centered State Dinner, and more. Be sure to also check out our entire special exhibit, Presidential Pets, on your visit! Please note while we love your pets, only service animals are allowed in the building. All activities are free with paid admission. Youths ages 17 and under are free. Student, military, senior, EBT, and other discounts are available. Parking is free at the Library. There is also a free shuttle running from the JFK/UMass red line station to the JFK Library. Adaptive maker activities and a Flexible Calming Space will be available for anyone who needs a break at any time. This is an inclusive program and people both with and without disabilities are always welcomed.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Flying High Dogs: An Evening with Presidential Pets

Join us for a special evening at the JFK Library to celebrate pets of all kinds, with a special focus on canine companions! At 6:00 p.m., join us on our back lawn for a free, unforgettable program with Mike Piazza and his Flying High Dogs. This K9 frisbee show is educational, interactive, dynamic and fun! Crowds of all ages will be entertained, and should expect plenty of audience participation. *Please note: Please do not bring dogs or food to the Flying High Dogs session. This request is for safety reasons, and to limit distraction to the show dogs. And, while we love your pets, only service animals are allowed inside the JFK Library. From 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (last entry at 7:00 p.m.), with paid admission to the Museum, learn about JFK’s life and work in our galleries, and make sure to visit our Presidential Pets special exhibit. Additionally, enjoy pet-inspired activities, watch rarely seen family film footage of the Kennedys and their furry friends, and see an exclusive special display of selected items from the collections. Special food and drink options will be available for purchase. The JFK Café and the Museum Store will be open late. Registration is recommended but not required. Rain date: Thursday, September 11, 2025

JFK Library Community Night

From ferrets to farm animals, the White House has been home to pets of all shapes and sizes! Come by and explore our new exhibition, <a href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/visit-museum/exhibits/special-exhibits/presidential-pets">Presidential Pets</a> (until January 2026), with curator-led tours and rarely seen family film footage of the Kennedys and their furry friends. Live musical performances by the Valinor Quartet throughout the evening. This program is part the Library's "Community Nights” on the first and third Wednesday of July and August. You'll get after-hours access to our galleries, exclusive food and drink for purchase in the cafe, rarely seen archival film footage, and live music. Community Night activities are free with paid admission. Last admission will be at 7:15 p.m.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library

From ferrets to farm animals, the White House has been home to pets of all shapes and sizes! Come by and explore our new exhibition,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/visit-museum/exhibits/special-exhibits/presidential-pets">Presidential Pets</a>&nbsp;(open until January 2026), with curator-led tours and rarely seen family film footage of the Kennedys and their furry friends. Live musical performances by International String Trio throughout the evening. This program is part the Library's "Community Nights” on the first and third Wednesday of July and August. You'll get after-hours access to our galleries, exclusive food and drink for purchase in the cafe, rarely seen archival film footage, and live music. Community Night activities are free with paid admission. Last admission will be at 7:15 p.m.

Head to Columbia Point to celebrate First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy's 96th birthday! Well-known as a style icon, Mrs. Kennedy was an integral player in the Kennedy administration and revolutionized the role of the First Lady. Learn more about her time in the White House and enjoy live musical performances by The Entertainment Specialists HarpBeat throughout the evening. This program is part the Library's "Community Nights" on the first and third Wednesday of July and August. You'll get after-hours access to our galleries, exclusive food and drink for purchase in the cafe, rarely seen archival film footage, and live music. Community Night activities are free with paid admission. Last admission will be at 7:15 p.m.

Come over to the JFK Library and enjoy some Independence Day-themed activities while you explore the galleries. Learn more about JFK's time in the U.S. Navy during World War II, his enduring appreciation for enlisted men and women, and how the beliefs set forth by the Founding Fathers resonated throughout his time in office. This program is part the Library's "Community Nights on the first and third Wednesday of July and August. You'll get after-hours access to our galleries, exclusive food and drink for purchase in the cafe, rarely seen archival film footage, and live music. Community Night activities are free with paid admission. Last admission will be at 7:15 p.m.

Benkadi Drum and Dance at the JFK Library

Join us for dances showcasing traditional West African rhythms and movements! The multicultural Benkadi Drum and Dance group returns to perform new dances showcasing traditional West African rhythms and movements. With vivid costumes, interpretive dance, and audience participation, join us in honor of Juneteenth! How to Attend Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or call 617-514-1644 and leave a detailed message. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society. Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

Tanglewood Marionettes present The Dragon King (Free)

Join us for a free performance of The Dragon King by Tanglewood Marionettes! Journey below the sea in this story of fantasy, courage, and wonder from Chinese folklore. Tanglewood Marionettes bring to life fantastic sea creatures and a fearless grandmother who goes in search of the Dragon King when things go amiss in the land above. How to Attend Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or call 617-514-1644 and leave a detailed message. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mask wearing is encouraged but not required.&nbsp; This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society.&nbsp; Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

Tanglewood Marionettes present The Dragon King

Join us for a free performance of The Dragon King by Tanglewood Marionettes! Journey below the sea in this story of fantasy, courage, and wonder from Chinese folklore. Tanglewood Marionettes bring to life fantastic sea creatures and a fearless grandmother who goes in search of the Dragon King when things go amiss in the land above. How to Attend Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or call 617-514-1644 and leave a detailed message. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mask wearing is encouraged but not required.  This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society.  Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

The Plugged In Band at the JFK Library (Free)

Join us for a free musical performance by students with and without disabilities, including musical favorites for all ages! Enjoy Plugged In Band, bringing us music by students with and without disabilities, performing some musical favorites for all ages. The performance will end with everyone coming together to sing a group song. Join in by singing along, getting up and dancing, and expressing yourself while listening to the musical performances. How to Attend Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or call 617-514-1644 and leave a detailed message. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor.   Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mask wearing is encouraged but not required.  This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society.  Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

The Story of the Irish in Boston with the Celtic Bells

Join us for a free program that tells the story of Irish immigrants in Boston. In honor of St. Patrick's Day, come listen to the story of Irish immigrants in Boston. Celtic Bells weaves in songs and poems of work, humor, protest, longing for home, and longing to feel at home in America. Enjoy the lively music of the fiddle, bodhran (Irish drum), banjo, flute, guitar, and bagpipes. How to Attend Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or call 617-514-1644 and leave a detailed message. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mask wearing is encouraged but not required.  This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society.  Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

Presidents' Day Festival at the JFK Library

The 14th annual Presidents’ Day Festival’s main activities will kick off at 10:30 a.m. Actors portraying Presidents John Adams, Abraham Lincoln, and First Lady Abigail Adams will share stories and engage visitors in historical conversations. There will be a special musical sing-along, “Hail to the Chief,” performed by In Good Company covering the history of campaign songs from Washington to Kennedy. Festival-goers can enjoy Museum tours and activities that bring history to life for all ages. Visitors will be able to take part in maker activities including crafting Kennedy campaign hats, space capsules, popsicle stick flags, and more. The Festival will feature other activities including presidential jeopardy, an opportunity to write a letter to the president, and join a Kennedy-style State Dinner. The Festival will close with a special free concert by the Harvard Din &amp; Tonics, who will perform Kennedy campaign songs and popular music from the 1960s and today. In celebration of Presidents’ Day week, the JFK Library will reveal a special buzzword on social media. Visitors who provide the buzzword during admission throughout the week of February 15-23, 2025 will receive $2 off admission prices.    Youth ages 17 and under will be free on Festival Day. Additional student, military, senior, and EBT discounts are always available.

George Russell Jr. and Friends perform at the JFK Presidential Library

Join us for a performance with George Russell Jr. and Friends in honor of Black History Month! Listeners of all ages will learn how music inspired and motivated Americans during the civil rights movement and enjoy some of Martin Luther King Jr.'s favorite songs. (This program was rescheduled from January 20, 2025.) How to Attend Make a reservation online or send a detailed email. All large groups must email <a href="mailto:JFK.celebrate@nara.gov">JFK.celebrate@nara.gov</a> to ensure that there will be adequate seating. All large groups must speak with a staff member a week in advance to ensure that there will be adequate seating. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and space is available on a first come, first served basis. Limited seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor.  Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mask wearing is encouraged but not required.  This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. A Quiet Space is available for anyone who needs a break from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together. The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural diversity through the arts. This program is tied directly to President and Mrs. Kennedy's concern for and support of the arts and culture in a democratic society. Thanks to generous support from the Martin Richard Foundation and the Mass Cultural Council all performances are free.

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

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S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

jfklibraryfoundation

Experiences

Presidential Pets Party at the JFK Library

Flying High Dogs: An Evening with Presidential Pets

JFK Library Community Night

JFK Library Community Night

JFK Library Community Night

JFK Library Community Night

Benkadi Drum and Dance at the JFK Library

Tanglewood Marionettes present The Dragon King (Free)

Tanglewood Marionettes present The Dragon King

The Plugged In Band at the JFK Library (Free)

The Story of the Irish in Boston with the Celtic Bells

Presidents' Day Festival at the JFK Library

George Russell Jr. and Friends perform at the JFK Presidential Library