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!
Legacy Lecture: Tea Time Tales of Widowed First Ladies w/ Comedian Lauren Howard Hayes
June 13, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: What happens when you mix history, humor, and a one-woman show? You get Tea Time Tales of Widowed First Ladies with comedian Lauren Howard Hayes! From Mary Lincoln to Jackie Kennedy, Hayes breathes life (and laughs!) into these iconic figures, sharing their secrets, stories, and struggles with a comedic twist.
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese: Mary Lincoln’s Fashion Legacy
June 19, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN PERSON: Step back in time to the elegance of the Civil War era! For this month’s Third Thursday wine and cheese, we honor Juneteenth and for one night only, we’re showcasing an extraordinary capelet designed by Elizabeth Keckley, the talented Black dressmaker and confidante to Mary Lincoln. Get up close with this rare piece of fashion history and learn the fascinating story behind the First Lady’s wardrobe and her relationship with Keckley. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health
Storytime & More with Stark Library
June, 23 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN PERSON: Join us for Storytime fun with Stark Library! Perfect for children from birth to preschool, our sessions feature stories, music, crafts, and activities designed to spark imagination and build early literacy skills.
Cooking with the First Ladies with Sarah Morgan
June 23, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join us virtually as Sarah Morgan of Cooking with the First Ladies takes you on a flavorful journey into the life of Barbara Bush—a First Lady known for her love of literacy, kindness, and her ability to connect with people through food. In this fun, engaging event, you’ll get the chance to cook along with Sarah as she walks you through one of Barbara Bush’s favorite recipes, all while learning about her life, her contributions to society, and the importance of family meals during her time in the White House.
Third Thursday Wine & Cheese with the First Ladies: An Evening with Ida Saxton McKinley
July 17, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
IN PERSON: Wine, cheese, and timeless fashion! Enjoy an elegant summer evening at the Saxton-McKinley House featuring First Lady Ida McKinley’s timeless fashion and personal artifacts, historic storytelling, and garden strolls. Doors open at 6:00 PM. Free parking available. Third Thursdays Generously Sponsored by Employers Health
Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Summer White House with Kate Storey
July 18, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join White House by the Sea author and Rolling Stone journalist Kate Storey for a behind-the-scenes look at Jackie Kennedy’s life at the Summer White House in Cape Cod, known as Hyannis Port. Explore powerful moments of family, leadership, and loss from the Kennedy Compound—right from your own screen.
Storytime & More With Stark Library
July 28, 2025, 11:00am - 12:00pm
IN-PERSON: Discover the joy of learning together! This interactive Storytime, in partnership with Stark Library, combines engaging stories, rhymes, songs, and creative activities to help your child grow. Designed for kids from birth to preschool, Storytime builds literacy skills and prepares little ones for Kindergarten success.
Legacy Lecture: In Her Steps: Betty Ford's Life in Motion with Sharon Snowden
August 8, 2025, 12:00pm - 1:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join Sharon Snowden for a virtual lecture on the life and legacy of Betty Ford—a First Lady who reshaped the role through her candid activism and powerful advocacy on women’s rights, addiction, and health. Explore Betty Ford’s journey from dancer to First Lady and discover how she broke barriers during and after her time in the White House.
Talk with a Curator
August 13, 2025, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
VIRTUAL: Join Michelle Gullion, Director of Collections & Research, for an exclusive virtual glimpse behind the scenes of our First Ladies collection. Learn the stories behind the priceless artifacts and get a closer look at the personal history of America’s First Ladies.