When most people think of Washington, DC’s The Kennedy Center, they think of spending what can feel like a fortune on tickets to see a performance. Case in point, I am seeing Hamilton at The Kennedy Center in JUST 10 days!!!! I shared a bit about my visit to The Kennedy Center on my Instagram (follow me @_thepinkchickadee) in recent times and am planning to share here more about it, too. To the common eye’s surprise, The Kennedy Center has MANY free things to do upon visiting, whether it be seeing an exhibit, checking out their legendary rooftop terrace, or enjoying the outdoor grounds or a daily performance outside. More specifically, Papa and I visited the brand-new former President John F. Kennedy (JFK) exhibit on opening weekend just a few weekends ago.
SO, to give a back story to the JFK exhibit at The Kennedy Center, during his presidency, President Kennedy founded and set aside some funds for an arts center in Washington, DC. He wanted this arts center to represent the several cultures within the United States and embrace diversity, showcase the performing arts talents within our world and a place to present international talents, too, and honor none other than the arts. The Kennedy Center was being built and, after President Kennedy’s assassination, it was decided to name this famous arts center that he so created the foundations for after him. This exhibit on President Kennedy opened on September 17, 2022 to honor the 50th anniversary of The Kennedy Center which opened in 1972. The JFK exhibit has photos of everything that the former President wanted to dedicate The Kennedy Center to, whether it be a safe haven for African Americans to express themselves and be accepted for who they are, a place for dancers, singers, and actors to show off their talents, and to continue performing arts education for all. JFK was President during the 1960’s in a time when the Cold War and Civil Rights Movements dominated the news and then-current times. Overall, the exhibit was a BEAUTIFUL tribute to former President Kennedy and his love for creating a safe haven for all to simply be them for years to come.
One of my favorite parts of the JFK exhibit was getting to see ALL of the former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis photos!!! I am a HUGE fan of Jackie Kennedy, as I love her utter class, style, and charisma. Not to mention, the fact that Jackie Kennedy remained a major supporter of the establishment of The Kennedy Center both when her late husband was in office and when he passed. Jackie Kennedy truly loved The Kennedy Center!! At the same time, the history of the Kennedy family was presented in JFK’s dedication exhibit. It was neat to be able to see the passion that the entire Kennedy family has for the arts and embracing diversity, all cultures, and acceptance.
Recently, I have been reading a lot of magazines on celebrities, whether it be Elizabeth Taylor or Dolley Parton. It has, indeed, been my new way to wind down after a long day. Anyhow, there is even a Kennedy Center award given to performers. It’s neat to see the legacy of The Kennedy Center and JFK to this day in performers that many of us know and love across the globe!
Truly, the passions that JFK had for the arts shows today in their legacy known as The Kennedy Center. It seriously is a beautiful legacy!!! There is also a GORGEOUS signature rooftop terrace accessible to ALL The Kennedy Center visitors which truly showcases the beauty of Washington, DC (via showing off gorgeous skyline views!) and honors the Kennedy’s very well.
XOXO – Katie <3