UPCOMING EVENTS
STEP INSIDE HISTORY
Get to know what made our First Ladies tick with deep dives into their careers, passions, hobbies, and even recipes. Our in-person events are perfect for girls’ night out, a historic date with someone you love, or a fascinating learning experience with the whole family. And our online events are a wonderful way to learn more about these amazing ladies!
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: First Ladies & Their Iconic Hats
September 18, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Enjoy wine and cheese during a fascinating evening exploring the iconic hats worn by First Ladies throughout history. Get an up-close look at rarely displayed original hats from our collection and learn how these fashion pieces were statements of power and elegance. Our expert staff will guide you through the stories behind these iconic accessories and the First Ladies who wore them. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health.
Women of the White House Gala
September 20, 2025, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
IN-PERSON: Join us for an elegant evening celebrating the legacy of America’s First Ladies and the 25th anniversary of the National First Ladies Library & Museum’s partnership with the National Park Service. Enjoy a Kennedy-inspired dinner, live entertainment, and a panel featuring former First Lady Chiefs of Staff, including Anita B. McBride, former Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush.
Cooking with the First Ladies: Eliza Johnson
September 22, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Step back in time with Sarah Morgan as she prepares a historical recipe inspired by Eliza Johnson, wife of President Andrew Johnson. Enjoy this fun and interactive cooking session where Sarah will share fascinating stories about Eliza Johnson’s life in the White House while you cook along.
Storytime & More with the Stark Library
September 26, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
IN-PERSON: Help your little one take the first step toward school success with Storytime & More! This interactive event in partnership with Stark Library uses stories, songs, rhymes, and art to build early literacy skills and spark your child’s imagination. Free for children birth to preschool.
FREE FAMILY EVENT: National Public Lands Day
September 27, 2025, 9:00am - 4:00pm
FREE FAMILY EVENT: Celebrate National Public Lands Day at the First Ladies National Historic Site! Enjoy FREE admission to enjoy guided tours of the Saxton House as well as garden games and music in the park. This event is part of a national movement to preserve and enjoy America’s public lands for future generations, and we’re proud to partner with the National Park Service (NPS) to make this celebration happen.
Legacy Lecture: Martha Washington – Women and Music in Early America
October 10, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Explore the musical world of Martha Washington and the women of early America with expert David Hildebrand. This engaging virtual lecture includes live and recorded music, fascinating stories, and a glimpse into 18th-century cultural life.
Third Thursdays Wine & Cheese with the First Ladies: Threads of Legacy
October 16, 2025 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN-PERSON: Discover how First Ladies used needlework as a form of expression, comfort, and cultural connection – from Martha Washington to Michelle Obama. Join needlework researcher Denise Layman for wine, cheese, and a one-of-a-kind storytelling evening. Third Thursdays generously supported by Employers Health.
Storytime & More with Stark Library
October 31, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Help your little one take the first step toward school success with Storytime & More! This interactive event in partnership with Stark Library uses stories, songs, rhymes, and art to build early literacy skills and spark your child’s imagination. Free for children birth to preschool.
Talk with a Curator
November 12, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join our Director of Collections & Research, Michelle Gullion, for a rare behind-the-scenes look at the First Ladies artifacts and stories you won’t see on display.