Declaring the Revolution: America's Printed Path to Independence

While the path to American independence had a bloody war at the center of it, it also was a revolution of ideas and identity. During the American Revolution the original thirteen colonies--diverse and separately controlled territories of Great Britain--became a self-governing, democratic alliance united by shared ideals of liberty, freedom from oppression, and individual rights. The words expressing these ideals were spread through the 18th&nbsp;century’s only form of mass communication: print. In honor of its 250th anniversary,&nbsp;Declaring the Revolution, a new special exhibit at the JFK Library and Museum,&nbsp;celebrates the Declaration of Independence; the writings that influenced it; the circumstances that led to its creation; and the individuals from the revolutionary generation who embodied its principles, using rare pamphlets, books, broadsides, maps, and engravings from the collection of David M. Rubenstein. Guest Curator: Mazy Boroujerdi, Curator, David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Revolutionary Beginnings with George and Martha Washington

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. &amp; 12:30 p.m. - 1:20 p.m.<ul><li>Stage performance of "Breakfast with the Washingtons" portrayed by Glen Siner and Sandy Spector</li><li>Ask George and Martha Washington a question</li></ul>11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.<ul><li>Enjoy hands-on-history maker activities</li><li>Explore 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</li><li>Don't miss our special exhibit "Declaring the Revolution: America's Printed Path to Independence"</li><li>Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration</li></ul>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. 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. 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 <a href="mailto:jfkprograms@nara.gov">jfkprograms@nara.gov</a>. 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.

Navy Band Northeast in Concert at the JFK Library

Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music as Navy Band Northeast brings not one, but two of its celebrated chamber ensembles to the Kennedy Library and Museum! The&nbsp;Crosswinds Woodwind Quintet&nbsp;opens the night with the warm and nuanced blend of five distinct wind instruments. From classical masterworks to patriotic selections, Crosswinds has built an extensive repertoire that reflects the full breadth of the chamber music tradition.&nbsp;&nbsp; They'll be followed by the&nbsp;Trident Brass Quintet, whose bold, brilliant sound of five brass instruments brings a different but equally compelling voice to the stage. Beloved by audiences of all ages, the quintet spans a remarkable range of musical styles — from the foot-tapping energy of Dixieland jazz to stirring patriotic marches — alongside traditional brass literature and contemporary favorites. Together, these two quintets of active-duty U.S. Navy musicians make for a rich, varied 90-minute program that's a perfect summer evening out. Registration is recommended but not required. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum exhibits will be open free of charge from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Food and drink options will be available for purchase in the Cafe, and our Museum Store will be open.

Free Movie Screening: Young Washington

In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, join us for an exclusive advance screening and discussion of the upcoming film Young Washington. Before he was the Father of a Nation, he was a soldier fighting to survive — and this film brings to life the untold story of young George Washington, thrust into the center of a global conflict. A panel discussion with Writer, Director and Producer, Jon Erwin, Producer Chip Diggins, and International Center for Jefferson Studies historian Nicole Brown,moderated by Bill of Rights Institute President David Bobb, follows the event.   Please note: Young Washington is best suited for viewers 13+ due to intense war scenes and thematic elements.

Lion Dance and Kung Fu Traditions Come Alive!

Join us for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with the Wah Lum Kung Fu and Tai Chi Academy Performance Troupe for an exhilarating experience to appreciate the precious arts of lion dance and kung fu. These traditions — preserved for thousands of years — embraced by Wah Lum's diverse practitioners promote healthy minds, bodies, and spirits for all ages, while making invaluable community connections to the vibrant arts and culture community of New England. 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. - 11:30 a.m. &amp; 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.<ul><li>"Lion Dance and Kung Fu Traditions Come Alive!" by the Wah Lum Kung Fu and Tai Chi Academy Performance Troupe</li></ul>11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.<ul><li>Enjoy maker activities related to creative traditions in honor of Asian American &amp; Pacific Islander Heritage Month</li><li>Visitors of all ages will work with local artists in constructing and crafting materials for some final elements of making a lion head with paper, paint, and fabric.</li><li>Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration</li></ul>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.

National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America

From its drafting by Thomas Jefferson to today, award-winning historian Michael Auslin’s National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America charts the many lives of a document that captures the soul of America and has united generations around its defiant ideals. As the 250th anniversary of America’s founding approaches, Auslin discusses the Declaration as a physical object and a set of ideals that have made America what it is today with Arun Rath, Executive Editor and Host at GBH.

Space Week at the JFK Library

FREE admission with use of the Buzzword “SPACE” Come celebrate Massachusetts Space Week at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum! We’ll have fun and educational activities for learners of all ages throughout the week, including:<ul><li>Special pop-up object displays</li><li>Hands-on activities</li><li>Film screenings and live music performances</li><li>Panel discussions with space experts from around the world</li></ul>Read more information below on special events at the JFK Library during the week: April 21 – Massachusetts Space Day The official launch to Massachusetts Space Week 2026, Massachusetts Space Day is a one-day conference for space enthusiasts and professionals. Attend panel discussions with astrophysics experts on the recent advances in aerospace engineering, the ethics of space exploration, and growth of space economics in the Commonwealth, among others, as well as a keynote speech from NASA astronaut Al Sacco, Jr. April 23 – JFK Space Fest 2026 Join us for a free day celebrating the wonders of space exploration for all ages. President Kennedy's support for the space program and reaching the Moon remains one of his most impactful efforts across generations. Learn about this history and its continued relevance today and for the future. As part of the Space Film Festival, enjoy a free screening of The Iron Giant film for all ages! In this animated adaptation of Ted Hughes' Cold War fable, a giant alien robot crash-lands near the small town of Rockwell, Maine, in 1957. Exploring the area, a local 9-year-old boy, Hogarth, discovers the robot, and soon forms an unlikely friendship with him. April 25 – Space Week Triple Feature Join us for a live performance Earth Music Theater Live, followed by a discussion on the pragmatic and philosophical questions around accessibility and representation in the space sector. End the night with breathtaking stargazing–brought to you by the University of Massachusetts Boston Astronomy Club–and a virtual reality journey through space debris and equipment currently in Earth’s orbit.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library

Scout Day at the JFK Library

Join us for a special Scout Day at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum! Scouts will learn about the job of the president and participate in hands-on activities that showcase President Kennedy’s values of service, civics, and leadership. Explore the only Presidential Library in New England and receive a unique patch. There will be something for all ages, so come as a Scout, a family, or as a troop! All registered Scouts will receive a special JFK Library Scout Day patch. Space is limited. $5.00 for each participant (this payment includes Museum admission and all program activities). Advance registration is required. After you submit an interest form, a staff member will be in touch for payment processing. Registration will not be complete until a staff member finalizes payment and sends confirmation. Activities include:<ul><li>Tour the Museum, the only Presidential Library and Museum in New England</li><li>Express your creativity at our maker stations</li><li>Participate in the Kennedy Presidential Fitness Challenge</li><li>Meet a special guest</li><li>Write a letter to the President and make your values and concerns a part of the historic record</li></ul>Contact JFKprograms@nara.gov with any questions.

Greene-O'Leary School of Irish Dancers at the JFK Library

Come enjoy a celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in honor of Irish American Heritage Month. Exuberant dancers demonstrate athleticism, skill, and poise while presenting traditional and contemporary styles of Irish dance. Between musical performances, enjoy some creative activities and explore the Museum galleries. On this day, the JFK Library will offer free admission to Museum galleries from 10:00am-2:00pm to all visitors. Youths ages 17 and under are always free. 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.    <ul><li>Performance by the Greene-O’Leary School of Irish Dancers</li></ul>11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.<ul><li>Enjoy maker activities related to Irish crafting traditions and learn more about the creativity of the Kennedy women who influenced President Kennedy’s values</li><li>Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration</li></ul>12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.     <ul><li>Performance by the Greene-O’Leary School of Irish Dancers﻿ </li></ul>1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.<ul><li>Enjoy maker activities related to Irish crafting traditions and learn more about the creativity of the Kennedy women who influenced President Kennedy’s values</li><li>Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration</li></ul>This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. Sensory flexible adaptive options and a flexible calming space (quiet room) will be available for anyone who needs a break at any time, especially anyone experiencing sensory overload. Parking is free at the JFK Library.

15th Annual Presidents' Day Festival

Join us at the JFK Presidential Library's President's Day Festival featuring presidential storytelling, hands-on make-and-take activities, live musical performances, and more for families of all ages. Actors portraying President John Adams, First Lady Abigail Adams, and Alice Roosevelt, daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt, will share stories and engage visitors in historical conversations, including opportunities to reflect on the 250th Anniversary of the United States. In recognition of the America250 celebration, visitors can sign their names to a copy of the Declaration of Independence or write their dreams and aspirations for the next 250 years as part of a Wish Tree for the country. Additional activities will highlight the history of the animal companions who lived in the White House, creating a fun connection to the Library’s special exhibition, Presidential Pets. Visitors will be able to take part in maker activities including crafting Kennedy campaign hats, personalized campaign posters, 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 pet-centered, Kennedy-style State Dinner. Festival-goers can enjoy Museum tours and activities that bring history to life for all ages. 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. Special festival activities are free with paid adult admission. The concert is free for all. The festival is especially appropriate for ages 7 and up.

"Soundtrack of MLK's Life" with George Russell Jr. and Friends

Join us for a performance with George W. Russell Jr. and Friends in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Listeners of all ages will learn how music inspired and motivated Americans during the civil rights movement and enjoy some of Dr. King’s favorite songs. Between musical performances, enjoy some maker activities and explore the JFK Presidential Library's Museum galleries. In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the JFK Library will offer free admission to Museum galleries from 10:00am-2:00pm to all visitors. Youths ages 17 and under are always free. 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.     · “Soundtrack to the Life of MLK” first concert with George W. Russell Jr. and Friends 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. · Enjoy maker activities related to MLK’s values of civil rights and freedom for all · Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.      · “Soundtrack to the Life of MLK” second concert with George W. Russell Jr. and Friends ﻿ 1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. · Enjoy maker activities related to MLK’s values of civil rights and freedom for all · Visit the Museum galleries to explore the early 1960s and the Kennedy administration   This is an inclusive program and both people with and without disabilities are always welcomed. Sensory flexible adaptive options and a flexible calming space (quiet room) will be available for anyone who needs a break at any time, especially anyone experiencing sensory overload. Parking is free at the JFK Library.

Animal Dance Kingdom at the JFK Library

Join us for a free performance by Animal Dance Kingdom at the JFK Presidential Library! The dance ensemble teaches audiences about amazing animals through fun facts and movement—inviting everyone to dance like the creatures they discover. It’s an entertaining, interactive experience for all ages to learn and move together. You can stay to explore the family-friendly exhibit "Presidential Pets" after this performance. (Advanced tickets are not required. Youths 17 and under are always free. Tickets available at our Admissions Desk.) 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 from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. 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. 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 <a href="mailto:jfkprograms@nara.gov">jfkprograms@nara.gov</a>. All groups of 10 or more should coordinate with a staff member via email 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. Additional seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together.

Join us for a free performance by Animal Dance Kingdom at the JFK Presidential Library! The dance ensemble&nbsp;teaches audiences about amazing animals through fun facts and movement—inviting everyone to dance like the creatures they discover. It’s an entertaining, interactive experience for all ages to learn and move together. You can stay to explore the family-friendly exhibit "Presidential Pets" after this performance. (Advanced tickets are not required. Youths 17 and under are always free. Tickets available at our Admissions Desk.) 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 from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library. 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. 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 jfkprograms@nara.gov. All groups of 10 or more should coordinate with a staff member via email 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. Additional seats are available for people with disabilities, seniors, and others unable to sit on the floor. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please share this invitation with your friends and family today so they might join us to explore and experience together.&nbsp;

Wampanoag Singers and Dancers

Celebrate with us at the JFK Library on the day after Thanksgiving with an amazing free experience as the Wampanoag Singers and Dancers share their history and modern culture in an interactive performance. Bring your whole family to learn new movement and words in this participatory experience for all ages! In celebration of our reopening, the Museum is excited to offer&nbsp;free admission to all visitors through November 30. Come enjoy the permanent and special exhibit after this program. Advanced tickets are not required. 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 from the program at any time. Parking is free at the JFK Library.

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 💬

Community recs 💬

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 ⭐️

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

World Cup Watch Parties 🎉⚽️

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 📈

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

Declaring the Revolution: America's Printed Path to Independence

Revolutionary Beginnings with George and Martha Washington

Navy Band Northeast in Concert at the JFK Library

Free Movie Screening: Young Washington

Lion Dance and Kung Fu Traditions Come Alive!

National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America

National Treasure: How the Declaration of Independence Made America

Space Week at the JFK Library

Scout Day at the JFK Library

Greene-O'Leary School of Irish Dancers at the JFK Library

15th Annual Presidents' Day Festival

"Soundtrack of MLK's Life" with George Russell Jr. and Friends

Animal Dance Kingdom at the JFK Library

Animal Dance Kingdom at the JFK Library

Wampanoag Singers and Dancers