Celebrate! Revolutionary Beginnings with George and Martha Washington

Join us in honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States!
About this Event

Join us to honor the 250th anniversary of the country's revolution with George and Martha Washington. Get a hands-on demonstration of a colonial printing press and explore its critical role in rallying support for the revolutionary cause. Explore the history of the time period with colonial hands-on-history maker activities and reflect on how you may shape the next 250 years of this democracy.

Between stage performances, enjoy some creative activities and explore the Museum galleries.

On this day, the JFK Library will offer free admission to Museum galleries from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. to all visitors. Youths ages 17 and under are always free.
10:30 a.m. - 11:20 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. - 1:20 p.m.

• Stage performance of "Breakfast with the Washingtons" portrayed by Glen Siner and Sandy Spector
  Join General and Mrs. Washington (portrayed by Glenn Siner and Sandy Spector) as they take their breakfast together in spring of 1784. Listen in on their conversation about their lives thus far and what they look forward to with the War for Independence is behind them.
• Ask George and Martha Washington a question

11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

• Enjoy hands-on-history maker activities
• Get a hands-on demonstration of a colonial printing press and explore its critical role in the American Revolution while you press your own copy of the Declaration of Independence
• Don't miss our special exhibit "Declaring the Revolution: America's Printed Path to Independence"
• Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration

The Celebrate! series, appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up, highlights America’s rich cultural experiences through the arts as an important component of a democratic society.

Sensory Flexibility

This is an inclusive program and both people with and people without disabilities are always welcomed. A Flexible Calming Space (quiet room) is available for anyone who needs a break at any time, especially anyone experiencing sensory overload.

How to Attend

Please note that in order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are recommended for all visitors to this free program. Make a reservation online or email [email protected]. Space is available on a first come, first served basis. Children are seated on a carpeted floor with their caretakers and additional seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Security Getting to the JFK Library

Parking is free at the JFK Library.

A Paul Revere shuttle bus will be running from the JFK/UMass MBTA stop on the Red Line to the JFK Library.

Security

To make your experience safe and enjoyable, the JFK Library takes the safety and security of all guests, staff, and visitors seriously. Upon entry to this federal building, all visitors must pass through a security check with a metal detector. All bags will be searched by Security Officers upon entry. See our FAQ for more details.

Fun for All Ages!

🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM
"Breakfast with the Washingtons"

Info: Join General and Mrs. Washington (portrayed by Glenn Siner and Sandy Spector) as they take their breakfast together in spring of 1784. Listen in on their conversation about their lives thus far and what they look forward to with the War for Independence is behind them.

🕑: 11:00 AM - 02:30 PM
Explore and Create!

Info: • Experience the physical craft behind one of history’s most powerful documents – visitors can operate a simple printing press to take home their own copy of the Declaration of Independence!
• Make American popsicle stick flags
• Assemble your own colonial couture with revolutionary-era tricorn hats and cravats

🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:20 PM
"Breakfast with the Washingtons"

Info: Join General and Mrs. Washington (portrayed by Glenn Siner and Sandy Spector) as they take their breakfast together in spring of 1784. Listen in on their conversation about their lives thus far and what they look forward to with the War for Independence is behind them.