CINXE.COM
Ceremonial Room | JFK Library
<!DOCTYPE html> <html lang="en" dir="ltr" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#"> <head> <!-- Google Tag Manager --> <script>(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-TWV5WR');</script> <script>(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-WLMC86');</script> <!-- End Google Tag Manager --> <meta charset="utf-8" /> <meta name="description" content="About the Exhibit President and Mrs. Kennedy celebrated American history, culture, and achievement on social and diplomatic occasions. They brought an innovative spirit to ceremonial and state events, enhancing the role of the arts in national life. Artifacts and documents on display in this gallery feature the seating charts, place settings, invitations, programs and the outfit worn by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to the White House dinner or state visit events." /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.jfklibrary.org/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room" /> <meta property="og:title" content="Ceremonial Room" /> <meta property="og:description" content="About the Exhibit President and Mrs. Kennedy celebrated American history, culture, and achievement on social and diplomatic occasions. They brought an innovative spirit to ceremonial and state events, enhancing the role of the arts in national life. Artifacts and documents on display in this gallery feature the seating charts, place settings, invitations, programs and the outfit worn by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to the White House dinner or state visit events." /> <meta property="og:image:url" content="https://www.jfklibrary.org/sites/default/files/styles/open_graph/public/2018-04/jfkwhp-kn-c21722.jpg?itok=Oj4V8Xop" /> <meta property="og:image:width" content="1200" /> <meta property="og:image:height" content="630" /> <meta name="facebook-domain-verification" content="s2jjdpx10oiypmgsleh1yttxn4xa55" /> <meta name="Generator" content="Drupal 10 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <meta name="MobileOptimized" content="width" /> <meta name="HandheldFriendly" content="true" /> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <link rel="icon" href="/themes/custom/jfkl/favicon.ico" type="image/vnd.microsoft.icon" /> <link rel="alternate" hreflang="en" href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room" /> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room" /> <link rel="shortlink" href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/node/354356" /> <title>Ceremonial Room | JFK Library</title> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/default/files/css/css_IkeCJPYInCzn2lIpLJ0kO2Oyob6uzREimdSaZvF4WC0.css?delta=0&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1zMEOwyAMA9AfQuOTUKDumhUIasIQf7-p62GH7WJb72BUY5sBJWLxiZqxVIceksjOeFdpmakm-F8YIh1wj3XPfpVqNKBSvkA_854lUg5qM-OitomJDm5wCjrSFqhxoG5yvsPg_7jTqYbiIynckzHUn3krsvSMF_EUUsY" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/default/files/css/css_WFbjOgdN5r0GePcSpVE7-SfB-0Eoob08I-lmn5Ruo-I.css?delta=1&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1zMEOwyAMA9AfQuOTUKDumhUIasIQf7-p62GH7WJb72BUY5sBJWLxiZqxVIceksjOeFdpmakm-F8YIh1wj3XPfpVqNKBSvkA_854lUg5qM-OitomJDm5wCjrSFqhxoG5yvsPg_7jTqYbiIynckzHUn3krsvSMF_EUUsY" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="//fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Open+Sans:400,700,300" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/default/files/css/css_AU_5fllfqgckl0r3CVsrUp4oKqkZfS2r0USMT7OXL8Q.css?delta=3&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1zMEOwyAMA9AfQuOTUKDumhUIasIQf7-p62GH7WJb72BUY5sBJWLxiZqxVIceksjOeFdpmakm-F8YIh1wj3XPfpVqNKBSvkA_854lUg5qM-OitomJDm5wCjrSFqhxoG5yvsPg_7jTqYbiIynckzHUn3krsvSMF_EUUsY" /> <script src="//use.typekit.net/vkv2cvm.js"></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_oXytNqo3izEs98HRuKTPTjeEh7GdVHj6AZGrzmrcJqA.js?scope=header&delta=1&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1i0EOwjAMBD8EypMsNzHFjRNHdozE70ENx3LZ1cxqKSCrVqZvtSGMPVOiC3k7HlVSwQbOk8AJLT-X3EU3FDh8YccX7zhZ-91ja9TjN7hwIeOuC-d7UOV5AuQw4xyCBkauYZk8_V3Wp2lBSWfC0BHjA4rJUV8"></script> </head> <body class="path--node body-sidebars-first alias--visit-museum-exhibits-permanent-exhibits-ceremonial-room nodetype--page logged-out"> <!-- Google Tag Manager (noscript) --> <noscript><iframe src="//www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-TWV5WR" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript> <noscript><iframe src="//www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-WLMC86" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript> <!-- End Google Tag Manager (noscript) --> <div id="skip"> <a class="visually-hidden focusable skip-link" href="#skip-link-anchor"> Skip past main navigation </a> </div> <div class="dialog-off-canvas-main-canvas" data-off-canvas-main-canvas> <div class="page-standard" id="pg__c"> <header id="header"> <div class="region region-header-mobile-menu"> <div class="header-mobile"> <div class="toggle-holder"> <button class="menu-toggle" aria-controls="block-footer-4" aria-expanded="false"> <p class="words">Menu</p> <span></span> </button> </div> <a href="/" name="Home" title="Return to Home Page" class="home-button"></a> <a href="/donate" class="donate">Donate</a> <div class="header-mobile-menu"> <div class="mobile-top-objects"> <form action="/search" class="mobile-top-search"> <input type="text" name="search" aria-label="Search Terms" data-search-api-autocomplete-search="site_search" class="main-search-keywords form-autocomplete form-text ui-autocomplete-input" data-autocomplete-path="/search_api_autocomplete/site_search?display=page&&filter=search" type="text" name="search" value="" size="30" maxlength="128" autocomplete="off"/><button type="submit" aria-label="Search Submit"> Search </input> </form> </div> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-footer-4" id="block-footer-4" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:footer" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--footer"> <ul class="navigation-menu"> <li> <a href="/learn" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345056">Learn</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Learn submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>About JFK</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open About JFK submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/life-of-john-f-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4721">Life of John F. Kennedy</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/life-of-jacqueline-b-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4731">Life of Jacqueline B. Kennedy</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/jfk-in-history" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4521">JFK in History</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/historic-speeches" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/486">Historic Speeches</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/the-kennedy-family" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4526">The Kennedy Family</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/media-galleries" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12496">Media Galleries</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/interactives" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/50">Interactives</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Education</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Education submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/learn/education/teachers" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5051">Teachers</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/school-field-trips" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5276">School Field Trips</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/students" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5206">Students</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/profile-in-courage-essay-contest" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5211">Profile in Courage Essay Contest</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/adults" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5226">Adults</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/families" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5236">Families</a> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-3" data-submenu-level="3" > <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/interactives" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/50">Interactives</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Hemingway at the JFK</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Hemingway at the JFK submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/hemingway" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/407251">Explore Hemingway's Life & Works</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/search" data-drupal-link-system-path="hemingway/search">Search Hemingway at the JFK</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/kennedy-library-forums/upcoming-forums?forum_source=past&subject=Hemingway" data-drupal-link-query="{"forum_source":"past","subject":"Hemingway"}" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/896">Hemingway Events</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/407291">Hemingway Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/friends-of-the-ernest-hemingway-collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/342496">Friends of the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/ernest-hemingway-collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5596">Research in the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/about-hemingway-at-the-jfk" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/408771">About Hemingway at the JFK</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345091">Visit</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Visit submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>Plan Your Trip</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Plan Your Trip submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/visiting-safely-faq" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/378126">Visiting FAQ</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://buy.acmeticketing.com/events/273/list" target="_self">Reserve Tickets Online</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/hours-and-admission" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18336">Hours and Admission</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/getting-here" target="_blank" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18341">Getting Here</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/museum-calendar" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/90">Museum Calendar</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/accessibility" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18356">Accessibility</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/groups" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18346">Groups</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://store.jfklibrary.org/">Museum Store</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Host an Event</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Host an Event submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/event-photo-gallery" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12616">Event Photo Gallery</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/spaces-and-fees" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6796">Spaces and Fees</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/weddings" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6761">Weddings</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/catering" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6701">Catering</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/rehearsal-dinners-and-personal-events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6756">Rehearsal Dinners and Personal Events</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/audio-visual-services" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6741">Audio-Visual Services</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/policies-and-procedures" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6496">Policies and Procedures</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345276">Exhibits</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Exhibits submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="false"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5336">Permanent Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/special-exhibits" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5341">Special Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/past-exhibits" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5346">Past Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/virtual-exhibits" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/392101">Virtual Exhibits</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/research-collections" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6637891">Research Collections</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Research Collections submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>Archives</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Archives submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/archives/ask-an-archivist" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17681">Ask an Archivist</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/about-archival-collections" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6671">About Archival Collections</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/search-collections" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12771">Search Collections</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/plan-a-research-visit" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6691">Plan a Research Visit</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/research-support-services" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17666">Research Support Services</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/other-resources" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17846">Other Resources</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/research-fellowships-grants" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5601">Research Fellowships & Grants</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/ernest-hemingway-collection" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5596">Ernest Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://jfk.blogs.archives.gov/" target="_self" title="JFK Library Archives Blog: An Inside Look">JFK Library Archives Blog</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Museum</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Museum submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/museum/about-the-museum-collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/391976">About the Museum Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/">Explore the Collection</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345076">Events & Awards</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Events & Awards submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="false"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/museum-calendar" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/90">Museum Calendar</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/forums" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/88">Kennedy Library Forums</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/celebrate-family-programming" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/89">Celebrate! Family Programming</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/profile-in-courage-award" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/62">Profile in Courage Award</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/profile-in-courage-essay-contest" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5211">Profile in Courage Essay Contest</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/earthshot-innovation-challenge-northeast-us-edition" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6098086">Earthshot Innovation Challenge: Northeast U.S. Edition</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us" target="_self" class="heading" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345286">About Us</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open About Us submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" data-submenu-level="1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>About Us</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open About Us submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/about-us/about-the-jfk-library" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4511">About the JFK Library</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/jfk-library-foundation" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18136">About the JFK Library Foundation</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/news-and-press" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5241">News and Press</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/jobs-internships-volunteers" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4516">Jobs, Internships & Volunteers</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/social-media-podcasts-and-apps" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4701">Social Media, Podcasts, and Apps</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/contact-us" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4711">Contact Us</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/privacy-and-terms-of-use" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4716">Privacy and Terms of Use</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Join and Support</strong> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Join and Support submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2" data-submenu-level="2" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/make-a-gift" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18381">Make a Gift</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/become-a-member" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/356151">Become a Member</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/new-frontier-network" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12761">New Frontier Network</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/friends-of-the-ernest-hemingway-collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/342496">Friends of the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/create-a-victura-society-legacy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18041">Planned Giving</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/the-profile-in-courage-award-gala">Profile in Courage Award Gala</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/corporate-sponsorship" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10236">Corporate Sponsorship</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/more-ways-to-give" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10231">More Ways to Give</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="https://store.jfklibrary.org/" target="_blank" class="menu-item-link--mobile-only">Museum Store</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </div> </div> </div> <div class="region region-header-top-menu"> <div class="header-top"> <div class="header-top-center"> <div class="header-top-menu"> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-jfkl-main-menu" id="block-jfkl-main-menu" data-block-plugin-id="system_menu_block:main" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--main"> <ul class="navigation-menu" data-exclusive-submenus="true"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/accessibility" target="_self" title="Test accessibility link description" aria-label="accessibility" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18356">Accessibility</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/news-and-press" target="_self" aria-label="press" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5241">Press</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://store.jfklibrary.org/" target="_blank" aria-label="museum store">Museum Store</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </div> <form action="/search" class="header-top-search"> <input type="text" name="search" aria-label="Search Terms" data-search-api-autocomplete-search="site_search" class="main-search-keywords form-autocomplete form-text ui-autocomplete-input" data-autocomplete-path="/search_api_autocomplete/site_search?display=page&&filter=search" type="text" name="search" value="" size="30" maxlength="128" autocomplete="off"/><button type="button" aria-label="Search Submit" id="siteSearchCommitHeader"> <i class="fa-solid fa-magnifying-glass" aria-hidden="true"></i> Search</button> </form> <div class="header-top-translate"> <div id="block-gtranslate" data-block-plugin-id="gtranslate_block" class="block block-gtranslate block-gtranslate-block"> <div class="gtranslate_wrapper"></div><script>window.gtranslateSettings = {"switcher_horizontal_position":"left","switcher_vertical_position":"bottom","horizontal_position":"inline","vertical_position":"inline","float_switcher_open_direction":"top","switcher_open_direction":"bottom","default_language":"en","native_language_names":1,"detect_browser_language":0,"add_new_line":1,"select_language_label":"Select Language","flag_size":16,"flag_style":"2d","globe_size":60,"alt_flags":[],"wrapper_selector":".gtranslate_wrapper","url_structure":"none","custom_domains":null,"languages":["en","es","de","it","fr"],"custom_css":""};</script><script>(function(){var js = document.createElement('script');js.setAttribute('src', 'https://cdn.gtranslate.net/widgets/latest/dropdown.js');js.setAttribute('data-gt-orig-url', '/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room');js.setAttribute('data-gt-orig-domain', 'www.jfklibrary.org');document.body.appendChild(js);})();</script> </div> </div> <div class="header-top-donate-button"> <a class="donate-button" href="/donate" class="donate">Donate</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="header-bottom"> <div class="region region-header-bottom-menu"> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-footer" id="block-footer" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:footer" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--footer"> <ul class="navigation-menu" data-exclusive-submenus="true"> <li> <a href="/learn" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="learn" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345056">Learn</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Learn submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>About JFK</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/life-of-john-f-kennedy" aria-label="life of john f. kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4721">Life of John F. Kennedy</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/life-of-jacqueline-b-kennedy" aria-label="life of jacqueline b. kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4731">Life of Jacqueline B. Kennedy</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/jfk-in-history" aria-label="jfk in history" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4521">JFK in History</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/historic-speeches" target="_self" aria-label="historic speeches" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/486">Historic Speeches</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/the-kennedy-family" aria-label="the kennedy family" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4526">The Kennedy Family</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/media-galleries" target="_self" aria-label="media galleries" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12496">Media Galleries</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/about-jfk/interactives" target="_self" aria-label="interactives" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/50">Interactives</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Education</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/learn/education/teachers" target="_self" aria-label="teachers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5051">Teachers</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/school-field-trips" target="_self" aria-label="school field trips" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5276">School Field Trips</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/students" target="_self" aria-label="students" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5206">Students</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/profile-in-courage-essay-contest" target="_self" aria-label="profile in courage essay contest" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5211">Profile in Courage Essay Contest</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/adults" target="_self" aria-label="adults" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5226">Adults</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/families" target="_self" aria-label="families" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5236">Families</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Hemingway at the JFK</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/hemingway" aria-label="explore hemingway's life & works" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/407251">Explore Hemingway's Life & Works</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/search" aria-label="search hemingway at the jfk" data-drupal-link-system-path="hemingway/search">Search Hemingway at the JFK</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/kennedy-library-forums/upcoming-forums?forum_source=past&subject=Hemingway" aria-label="hemingway events" data-drupal-link-query="{"forum_source":"past","subject":"Hemingway"}" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/896">Hemingway Events</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/exhibits" aria-label="hemingway exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/407291">Hemingway Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/friends-of-the-ernest-hemingway-collection" aria-label="friends of the hemingway collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/342496">Friends of the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/ernest-hemingway-collection" aria-label="research in the hemingway collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5596">Research in the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway/about-hemingway-at-the-jfk" aria-label="about hemingway at the jfk" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/408771">About Hemingway at the JFK</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="visit" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345091">Visit</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Visit submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>Plan Your Trip</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/visiting-safely-faq" target="_self" aria-label="visiting faq" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/378126">Visiting FAQ</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://buy.acmeticketing.com/events/273/list" target="_self" aria-label="reserve tickets online">Reserve Tickets Online</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/hours-and-admission" target="_self" aria-label="hours and admission" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18336">Hours and Admission</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/getting-here" target="_blank" aria-label="getting here" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18341">Getting Here</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/museum-calendar" aria-label="museum calendar" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/90">Museum Calendar</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/accessibility" aria-label="accessibility" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18356">Accessibility</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip/groups" aria-label="groups" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18346">Groups</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://store.jfklibrary.org/" aria-label="museum store">Museum Store</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Host an Event</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/event-photo-gallery" aria-label="event photo gallery" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12616">Event Photo Gallery</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/spaces-and-fees" aria-label="spaces and fees" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6796">Spaces and Fees</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/weddings" aria-label="weddings" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6761">Weddings</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/catering" aria-label="catering" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6701">Catering</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/rehearsal-dinners-and-personal-events" aria-label="rehearsal dinners and personal events" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6756">Rehearsal Dinners and Personal Events</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/audio-visual-services" aria-label="audio-visual services" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6741">Audio-Visual Services</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/host-an-event/policies-and-procedures" aria-label="policies and procedures" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6496">Policies and Procedures</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345276">Exhibits</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Exhibits submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits" target="_self" aria-label="permanent exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5336">Permanent Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/special-exhibits" target="_self" aria-label="special exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5341">Special Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/past-exhibits" target="_self" aria-label="past exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5346">Past Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/virtual-exhibits" target="_self" aria-label="virtual exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/392101">Virtual Exhibits</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="logo"> <a href="/">John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum</a> </li> <li> <a href="/research-collections" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="research collections" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6637891">Research Collections</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Research Collections submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>Archives</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/archives/ask-an-archivist" aria-label="ask an archivist" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17681">Ask an Archivist</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/about-archival-collections" target="_self" aria-label="about archival collections" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6671">About Archival Collections</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/search-collections" target="_self" aria-label="search collections" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12771">Search Collections</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/plan-a-research-visit" target="_self" aria-label="plan a research visit" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6691">Plan a Research Visit</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/research-support-services" target="_self" aria-label="research support services" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17666">Research Support Services</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/other-resources" target="_self" aria-label="other resources" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/17846">Other Resources</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/research-fellowships-grants" target="_self" aria-label="research fellowships & grants" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5601">Research Fellowships & Grants</a> </li> <li> <a href="/archives/ernest-hemingway-collection" target="_self" aria-label="ernest hemingway collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5596">Ernest Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://jfk.blogs.archives.gov/" target="_self" title="JFK Library Archives Blog: An Inside Look" aria-label="jfk library archives blog">JFK Library Archives Blog</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Museum</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/museum/about-the-museum-collection" aria-label="about the museum collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/391976">About the Museum Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/" aria-label="explore the collection">Explore the Collection</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="events & awards" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345076">Events & Awards</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open Events & Awards submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/museum-calendar" aria-label="museum calendar" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/90">Museum Calendar</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/forums" target="_self" aria-label="kennedy library forums" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/88">Kennedy Library Forums</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/celebrate-family-programming" target="_self" aria-label="celebrate! family programming" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/89">Celebrate! Family Programming</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/profile-in-courage-award" target="_self" aria-label="profile in courage award" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/62">Profile in Courage Award</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/profile-in-courage-essay-contest" target="_self" aria-label="profile in courage essay contest" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5211">Profile in Courage Essay Contest</a> </li> <li> <a href="/events-and-awards/earthshot-innovation-challenge-northeast-us-edition" aria-label="earthshot innovation challenge: northeast u.s. edition" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6098086">Earthshot Innovation Challenge: Northeast U.S. Edition</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us" target="_self" class="heading" aria-label="about us" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345286">About Us</a> <button aria-expanded="false" class="submenu-toggle"> <span class="submenu-toggle-label">Open About Us submenu</span> </button> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-1" aria-hidden="true"> <li> <strong>About Us</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/about-us/about-the-jfk-library" target="_self" aria-label="about the jfk library" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4511">About the JFK Library</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/jfk-library-foundation" target="_self" aria-label="about the jfk library foundation" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18136">About the JFK Library Foundation</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/news-and-press" target="_self" aria-label="news and press" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5241">News and Press</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/jobs-internships-volunteers" target="_self" aria-label="jobs, internships & volunteers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4516">Jobs, Internships & Volunteers</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/social-media-podcasts-and-apps" target="_self" aria-label="social media, podcasts, and apps" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4701">Social Media, Podcasts, and Apps</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/contact-us" target="_self" aria-label="contact us" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4711">Contact Us</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/privacy-and-terms-of-use" target="_self" aria-label="privacy and terms of use" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4716">Privacy and Terms of Use</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <strong>Join and Support</strong> <ul class="submenu submenu--level-2"> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/make-a-gift" aria-label="make a gift" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18381">Make a Gift</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/become-a-member" aria-label="become a member" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/356151">Become a Member</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/new-frontier-network" aria-label="new frontier network" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12761">New Frontier Network</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/friends-of-the-ernest-hemingway-collection" aria-label="friends of the hemingway collection" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/342496">Friends of the Hemingway Collection</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/create-a-victura-society-legacy" aria-label="planned giving" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18041">Planned Giving</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/the-profile-in-courage-award-gala" aria-label="profile in courage award gala">Profile in Courage Award Gala</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/corporate-sponsorship" aria-label="corporate sponsorship" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10236">Corporate Sponsorship</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/join-and-support/more-ways-to-give" aria-label="more ways to give" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/10231">More Ways to Give</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <li> <a href="https://store.jfklibrary.org/" target="_blank" class="menu-item-link--mobile-only" aria-label="museum store">Museum Store</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </div> </div> </header> <div id="skip-link-anchor"></div> <!-- ______________________ Closing Message _______________________ --> <!-- ______________________ Pre content _______________________ --> <div class="banner-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/banner_image/public/2018-04/jfkwhp-kn-c21722.jpg?itok=lAKUt8e9" alt="KN-C21722. Table Settings and Flowers for Dinner in Honor of Minister of State for Cultural Affairs of France, André Malraux"/> </div> <div class="clearfix pre-content" id="pre-content"> <div class="cog--mq mq-precontent"> <div class="region region-pre-content"> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-visitmuseumtree-2" id="block-visitmuseumtree-2" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:visit-museum-tree" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--visit-museum-tree"> <div id="sidebar-nav-header-mobile-bottom"> </div> </nav> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-visitmuseumtree-3" id="block-visitmuseumtree-3" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:visit-museum-tree" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--visit-museum-tree"> <div id="sidebar-nav-mobile"> <ul class="menu"> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/young-jack" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11481">Young Jack</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/1960-presidential-election" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5556">1960 Presidential Election</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-inauguration-of-john-f-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11166">The Inauguration of John F. Kennedy</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/jfk-meets-the-press" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5566">JFK Meets the Press</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-peace-corps" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/8236">The Peace Corps</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/white-house-corridor-gifts-from-heads-of-state" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5561">White House Corridor: Gifts from Heads of State</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/354356" class="is-active" aria-current="page">Ceremonial Room</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/lift-off-the-us-space-program" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6396">Lift-off! The U.S. Space Program</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/robert-kennedys-attorney-general-office" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11161">Robert Kennedy's Attorney General Office</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-oval-office" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11466">The Oval Office</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/first-lady-jacqueline-bouvier-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11471">First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/state-visit-to-europe" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11476">State Visit to Europe</a> </li> </ul> </div> </nav><div id="block-jfkl-breadcrumbs" data-block-plugin-id="system_breadcrumb_block" class="block block-system block-system-breadcrumb-block"> <nav class="breadcrumb" role="navigation" aria-labelledby="system-breadcrumb"> <h2 id="system-breadcrumb" class="visually-hidden">Breadcrumb</h2> <ol> <li> <a href="/">Home</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum">Visit Museum</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits">Exhibits</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits">Permanent Exhibits</a> </li> </ol> </nav> </div> <div class="views-element-container block block-views block-views-blockmodal-popup-block-block-1" id="block-views-block-modal-popup-block-block-1" data-block-plugin-id="views_block:modal_popup_block-block_1"> <div><div class="view view-modal-popup-block view-id-modal_popup_block view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-3c08931624af7340ff403fb64c33ca65333373f71c9841dd5fb2a12d86b8930b"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="views-row views-row-last"> <section id="modal-popup" data-history-node-id="6693171" class="entity--type-node node node--type-modal-popup node--view-mode-full modal-6693171 modal-popup" data-node-id="6693171"> <article class="modal-popup__container"> <div class="modal-popup__content"> <div class="modal-popup__image" style="background-image: url('/sites/default/files/styles/crop_freeform/public/2025-02/Lightbox_Feb%20and%20March%202025_0.png?itok=pw2svMQO'); background-size: cover; background-position: center center;"></div><!--/modal-image--> <div class="modal-popup__text"> <h2> Dedicated to all those who through the art of politics seek a new and better world. </h2> <a class="button red" href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/about-us/join-and-support/support-the-jfk-library">Donate Today</a> </div><!--/modal-text--> </div><!--/modal-content--> </article><!--/article #node--> </section><!--/#modal--> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <!-- ______________________ MAIN _______________________ --> <!-- /#content-header --> <!-- HOMEPAGE SECTIONS --> <!-- HOME PAGE UPPER SECTION --> <!-- HOME PAGE FLAG SECTION --> <!-- HOME PAGE LOWER SECTION --> <div class="main-content-area-two-part clearfix"> <!-- CONTENT --> <div id="primary" class="content-area" id="pg__c"> <main id="main" class="site-main" role="main"> <div class="region region-content"> <div id="block-jfkl-page-title" data-block-plugin-id="page_title_block" class="block block-core block-page-title-block"> <h1><span>Ceremonial Room</span> </h1> </div> <div data-drupal-messages-fallback class="hidden"></div> <div id="block-jfkl-content" data-block-plugin-id="system_main_block" class="block block-system block-system-main-block"> <article class="entry-content"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h2>About the Exhibit</h2> <p>President and Mrs. Kennedy celebrated American history, culture, and achievement on social and diplomatic occasions. They brought an innovative spirit to ceremonial and state events, enhancing the role of the arts in national life. Artifacts and documents on display in this gallery feature the seating charts, place settings, invitations, programs and the outfit worn by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to the White House dinner or state visit events.</p> <p>From the earliest moments of his Presidency, with more than 150 artists, writers, and poets invited to his inauguration, JFK signaled that the arts would hold a central place in the public life of his administration. Over the next three years, White House events and receptions hosted by President and Mrs. Kennedy celebrated and showcased the highest in American cultural achievement. The President and Mrs. Kennedy hosted visits from foreign dignitaries and heads of state from countries all over the world.</p> <p>The items in the exhibit reveal all the pomp and ceremony of a state event, the glitter of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy's dress, the sparkle of the crystal, the music by Aaron Copland, the entertainment all carefully chosen, all these things speak to the beauty and formality of these age-old traditions. This event was notable as it demonstrated how President Kennedy was reaching out to the leader of a newly independent African nation.</p> <p>President Kennedy was a strong supporter of African nationalism and independence on both moral and strategic grounds. Within the context of the Cold War, he believed that the newly independent nations could have an impact on the struggle between the western democracies and the Soviet bloc. He also believed that the African movements for freedom and independence were inspired by the same universal aspirations that engendered our own American revolution. The Ivory Coast was one of the most staunchly anti-communist countries among the newly independent African states and was unfailingly loyal to the West. "If we extend the hand of friendship," JFK said, "then the course of African revolution...will be towards democracy and freedom and not towards communism." President Kennedy's invitation to President Félix Houphouët-Boigny was a gesture of friendship to the leader of an emerging African democracy.</p> <p>Included in the display are:</p> <ul> <li>Dinner menu with President Kennedy's scribbled notes</li> <li>Table setting used at the State Dinner</li> <li>Program for "Billy the Kid", performed by the American Ballet Theater in the East Room following the dinner</li> <li>Seating chart from the dinner</li> <li>State gifts from President and Mrs. Houphouët-Boigny</li> <li>Evening gown, designed by Oleg Cassini worn by Jacqueline Kennedy to the state dinner</li> </ul> <div data-embed-button="embed_slide_show" data-entity-embed-display="view_mode:node.slide_show" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"link_url":"","link_url_target":0}" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="519a81e0-1476-4958-a2d7-6a63c4394a9c" data-langcode="en" class="embedded-entity"> <article data-history-node-id="343621" class="entity--type-node node node--type-slide-show node--view-mode-slide-show"> <div class="content sliderino"> <div> <div class="slide-image" style="background:url(/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/Houphouet-Boigny%20Photograph%20MO%2063.5805.2.jpeg?itok=cUh3a6un) center center no-repeat #efefef; width: 100%; background-size: contain;"> </div> Photograph of President and Mrs. Félix Houphouët-Boigny<br> <p>This photograph was presented to President and Mrs. John F. Kennedy by President and Madame Félix Houphouët-Boigny, 1st President of Côte d'Ivoire (1960-1993), during his State Visit to the White House on May 22, 1962</p><p>Copyright restricted. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA. Accession number MO 63.5805.2</p><p><a href="https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/objects/16666/photograph-of-president-and-mrs-felix-houphouetboigny"><strong>More information</strong></a></p><br> </div> <div> <div class="slide-image" style="background:url(/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/Silver-Spangled%20Evening%20Gown%20MO%2063.1394.jpeg?itok=Rkzem8yp) center center no-repeat #efefef; width: 100%; background-size: contain;"> </div> Silver-spangled Evening Gown<br> <p>Strapless evening gown in silver-spangled white synthetic tulle embroidered with rhinestones and trimmed with gray silk velvet designed by Oleg Cassini. This dress was modeled after the Karl Lagerfeld for Jean Patou dress that was photographed in Harper's Bazaar. Worn by Jacqueline Kennedy to the state dinner honoring President Felix Houphouet-Boigny of the Ivory Coast, the White House, Washington, DC, May 22, 1962.</p><p>John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA. Accession number MO 63.1394</p><p><a href="https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/objects/6276/silverspangled-evening-gown"><strong>More information</strong></a></p><br> </div> <div> <div class="slide-image" style="background:url(/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-03/Cocoa%20Plantation%20MO%2063.429.jpeg?itok=fiUYQyZR) center center no-repeat #efefef; width: 100%; background-size: contain;"> </div> Painting of a Cocoa Plantation<br> <p>This painting by artist Diaby Youssouf was given to President Kennedy by the President of the Republic of the Ivory Coast, Félix Houphouët-Boigny on May 22, 1962.</p><p>John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA. Accession number MO 63.429</p><p><a href="https://jfk.artifacts.archives.gov/objects/889/cocoa-plantation"><strong>More information</strong></a></p><br> </div> <div> <div class="slide-image" style="background:url(/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2018-07/MO%209956.jpg?itok=jgcrqgxe) center center no-repeat #efefef; width: 100%; background-size: contain;"> </div> Ebony Magazine, August 1962<br> <p>August 1962 issue of Ebony Magazine featuring an article on glamorous First Ladies, showing First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and Madame Felix Houphouët-Boigny, First Lady of the Ivory Coast on the cover. </p> <p>John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA. Accession number MO 9956</p> <br> </div> </div> </article> <!-- /article #node --> </div> </div> <!-- /content --> </article> <!-- /article #node --> </div> </div> </main> <!-- / .site-main --> </div> <!-- / .content-area --> <!-- /sidebar-first --> <aside id="secondary" class="sidebar" role="complementary"> <div class="region region-sidebar-first"> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-visitmuseumtree" id="block-visitmuseumtree" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:visit-museum-tree" class="block block-menu navigation block-system-menublock menu--visit-museum-tree"> <div id="sidebar-nav"> <ul class="menu"> <li > <a href="/visit-museum" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345091">Visit Museum</a> </li> <li class="has-children"> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits" target="_self" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/345276">Exhibits</a> <ul class="menu "> <li class="has-children"> <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5336">Permanent Exhibits</a> <ul class="menu has-children"> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/young-jack" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11481">Young Jack</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/1960-presidential-election" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5556">1960 Presidential Election</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-inauguration-of-john-f-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11166">The Inauguration of John F. Kennedy</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/jfk-meets-the-press" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5566">JFK Meets the Press</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-peace-corps" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/8236">The Peace Corps</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/white-house-corridor-gifts-from-heads-of-state" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5561">White House Corridor: Gifts from Heads of State</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/ceremonial-room" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/354356" class="is-active" aria-current="page">Ceremonial Room</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/lift-off-the-us-space-program" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6396">Lift-off! The U.S. Space Program</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/robert-kennedys-attorney-general-office" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11161">Robert Kennedy's Attorney General Office</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/the-oval-office" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11466">The Oval Office</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/first-lady-jacqueline-bouvier-kennedy" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11471">First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/permanent-exhibits/state-visit-to-europe" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/11476">State Visit to Europe</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/special-exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5341">Special Exhibits</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/past-exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5346">Past Exhibits</a> </li> <li > <a href="/visit-museum/exhibits/virtual-exhibits" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/392101">Virtual Exhibits</a> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav> </div> </aside> </div> <!-- ______________________ Post content _______________________ --> <!-- ______________________ FOOTER _______________________ --> <footer id="footer" class="site-footer"> <div class="region region-footer"> <div id="block-footerjfklibrarymuseumblurb" data-block-plugin-id="block_content:072e0f22-e7d0-45b2-a4ab-2bff033000f4" class="block block-block-content block-block-content072e0f22-e7d0-45b2-a4ab-2bff033000f4"> <div class="container"> <img class="footer-logo" src="/themes/custom/jfkl/images/logo-reverse.svg" alt="Logo of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum" /> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is dedicated to the memory of our nation's thirty-fifth president and to all those who through the art of politics seek a new and better world.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div id="block-footerlibraryinfo" data-block-plugin-id="block_content:b86ae1c1-a84c-4c2b-b9e4-91426d7bd039" class="block block-block-content block-block-contentb86ae1c1-a84c-4c2b-b9e4-91426d7bd039"> <div class="container"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/2EZnhwh1ZHPTxeL37">Columbia Point, Boston MA 02125</a> | <a href="tel:6175141600">(617) 514-1600</a></p> <p>Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays in January and February. | Free parking</p> </div> </div> </div> <div id="block-footernavigationmenu" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:footer-navigation-menu" class="block block-menu-block block-menu-blockfooter-navigation-menu"> <div class="container"> <ul class="menu"> <li> <a href="/about-us/contact-us" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4711">Contact Us</a> </li> <li> <a href="/visit-museum/visit/plan-your-trip" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/12641">Visit</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.jfklibrary.org/archives/about-archival-collections">Explore the Archives</a> </li> <li> <a href="/learn/education/teachers" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5051">Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/hemingway" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/407251">Hemingway at the JFK</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/social-media-podcasts-and-apps/jfk35-podcast" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/350291">JFK35 Podcast</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/about-the-jfk-library" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4511">About the Library</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about-us/jfk-library-foundation" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/18136">About the Foundation</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.archives.gov/foia">FOIA</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="block-footersocialprofilesmenu" data-block-plugin-id="menu_block:footer-social-profiles-menu" class="block block-menu-block block-menu-blockfooter-social-profiles-menu"> <div class="container"> <ul class="menu"> <li> <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/jfklibraryfdn.bsky.social">Bluesky</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JFKLibraryFdn/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jfklibraryfdn/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/jfklfoundation/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@jfklibraryfdn" target="_blank">TikTok</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JFKLF" target="_blank">YouTube</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="block-footernarablurb" data-block-plugin-id="block_content:a8511c03-3720-4de7-8fe0-e05106589883" class="block block-block-content block-block-contenta8511c03-3720-4de7-8fe0-e05106589883"> <div class="container"> <img class="footer-logo" src="/themes/custom/jfkl/images/logo-national-archives.svg" alt="Logo of the National Arhives and Records Administration" /> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum is one of 16 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. This website is hosted and maintained by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </footer> <!-- /footer --> </div> <!-- /page --> </div> <script type="application/json" data-drupal-selector="drupal-settings-json">{"path":{"baseUrl":"\/","pathPrefix":"","currentPath":"node\/354356","currentPathIsAdmin":false,"isFront":false,"currentLanguage":"en"},"pluralDelimiter":"\u0003","suppressDeprecationErrors":true,"ajaxPageState":{"libraries":"eJx1jlFuxDAIRC-U1keysDObZYONZfBGuX3TJFJVqf0B5g2gyboE4TShOvseURLmkKk5a50wYlZdGUcrTZhqRvgLxkQd0-uxSpipRGNHNFDPzws-tDptMC34AXaNi2giia_f0nwX3KjSmxf6TvRhIxXUcRvtqa62cbu_mvCMzlUv6XvDyn6KmEfvnIdQj_0IMnqGhX-d66boTBLOGpu20SbbzVFCIsP0ZmwWzvp57AzBFwuIgws","theme":"jfkl","theme_token":null},"ajaxTrustedUrl":[],"eu_cookie_compliance":{"cookie_policy_version":"1.0.0","popup_enabled":true,"popup_agreed_enabled":false,"popup_hide_agreed":false,"popup_clicking_confirmation":false,"popup_scrolling_confirmation":false,"popup_html_info":"\u003Cdiv aria-labelledby=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-banner eu-cookie-compliance-banner-info eu-cookie-compliance-banner--opt-in\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\u0022popup-content info eu-cookie-compliance-content\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-message\u0022 role=\u0022document\u0022\u003E\n \u003Ch2\u003EWe use cookies to improve your user experience on our website. If you click accept you consent to our use of cookies.\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EMore information can be found in our \u003Ca href=\u0022\/about-us\/privacy-terms-of-use-accessibility\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EPrivacy and Use Policies\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-buttons\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-buttons\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022agree-button eu-cookie-compliance-secondary-button\u0022\u003EAccept\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022decline-button eu-cookie-compliance-default-button\u0022\u003EDon\u0026#039;t Accept\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E","use_mobile_message":false,"mobile_popup_html_info":"\u003Cdiv aria-labelledby=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-banner eu-cookie-compliance-banner-info eu-cookie-compliance-banner--opt-in\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\u0022popup-content info eu-cookie-compliance-content\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-message\u0022 role=\u0022document\u0022\u003E\n \n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-buttons\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-buttons\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022agree-button eu-cookie-compliance-secondary-button\u0022\u003EAccept\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022decline-button eu-cookie-compliance-default-button\u0022\u003EDon\u0026#039;t Accept\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E","mobile_breakpoint":768,"popup_html_agreed":false,"popup_use_bare_css":true,"popup_height":"auto","popup_width":"100%","popup_delay":1000,"popup_link":"\/about-us\/privacy-terms-of-use-accessibility","popup_link_new_window":true,"popup_position":false,"fixed_top_position":true,"popup_language":"en","store_consent":false,"better_support_for_screen_readers":false,"cookie_name":"","reload_page":false,"domain":"","domain_all_sites":false,"popup_eu_only":false,"popup_eu_only_js":false,"cookie_lifetime":100,"cookie_session":0,"set_cookie_session_zero_on_disagree":0,"disagree_do_not_show_popup":false,"method":"opt_in","automatic_cookies_removal":true,"allowed_cookies":"modal_closed*","withdraw_markup":"\u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-withdraw-tab\u0022\u003EPrivacy settings\u003C\/button\u003E\n\u003Cdiv aria-labelledby=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-withdraw-banner\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\u0022popup-content info eu-cookie-compliance-content\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-text\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-message\u0022 role=\u0022document\u0022\u003E\n \u003Ch2\u003EWe use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience\u003C\/h2\u003E\u003Cp\u003EYou have given your consent for us to set cookies.\u003C\/p\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003Cdiv id=\u0022popup-buttons\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-compliance-buttons\u0022\u003E\n \u003Cbutton type=\u0022button\u0022 class=\u0022eu-cookie-withdraw-button \u0022\u003EWithdraw consent\u003C\/button\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\u003C\/div\u003E","withdraw_enabled":false,"reload_options":0,"reload_routes_list":"","withdraw_button_on_info_popup":false,"cookie_categories":[],"cookie_categories_details":[],"enable_save_preferences_button":true,"cookie_value_disagreed":"0","cookie_value_agreed_show_thank_you":"1","cookie_value_agreed":"2","containing_element":"body","settings_tab_enabled":false,"olivero_primary_button_classes":"","olivero_secondary_button_classes":"","close_button_action":"close_banner","open_by_default":true,"modules_allow_popup":true,"hide_the_banner":false,"geoip_match":true},"ajax":[],"user":{"uid":0,"permissionsHash":"5aa7c4de0d0e39794a0bb0a2a4bb5519dea70f772dccb367639aec03d57a80c9"}}</script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_ihbvbhsXp-HcbjzymseNW4wSvqAhPWGnEnwjU0camgc.js?scope=footer&delta=0&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1i0EOwjAMBD8EypMsNzHFjRNHdozE70ENx3LZ1cxqKSCrVqZvtSGMPVOiC3k7HlVSwQbOk8AJLT-X3EU3FDh8YccX7zhZ-91ja9TjN7hwIeOuC-d7UOV5AuQw4xyCBkauYZk8_V3Wp2lBSWfC0BHjA4rJUV8"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/eu_cookie_compliance/js/eu_cookie_compliance.min.js?v=10.4.1" defer></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_jRpNG_dDtMy40TBRGtfOIhSugIO_39LRwaAQ4Nu8Zck.js?scope=footer&delta=2&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1i0EOwjAMBD8EypMsNzHFjRNHdozE70ENx3LZ1cxqKSCrVqZvtSGMPVOiC3k7HlVSwQbOk8AJLT-X3EU3FDh8YccX7zhZ-91ja9TjN7hwIeOuC-d7UOV5AuQw4xyCBkauYZk8_V3Wp2lBSWfC0BHjA4rJUV8"></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/site_search/dam_site_search.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_HuCirasEIcnuBnRHLsVtNbSbFKVC59tlIV2m54gPFuE.js?scope=footer&delta=4&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1i0EOwjAMBD8EypMsNzHFjRNHdozE70ENx3LZ1cxqKSCrVqZvtSGMPVOiC3k7HlVSwQbOk8AJLT-X3EU3FDh8YccX7zhZ-91ja9TjN7hwIeOuC-d7UOV5AuQw4xyCBkauYZk8_V3Wp2lBSWfC0BHjA4rJUV8"></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/app.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/menu.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/navigation.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/toggleable-facets.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/search-cr-mobile.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/jquery.hoverIntent.min.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/tabwidget.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/themes/custom/jfkl/js/dist/plugins/js.cookie.js?ssaef9" defer></script> <script src="/sites/default/files/js/js_NPmF7Usc0GkMuNpqzRSu3GyyZawgC1VYtEn1el1r-m0.js?scope=footer&delta=13&language=en&theme=jfkl&include=eJx1i0EOwjAMBD8EypMsNzHFjRNHdozE70ENx3LZ1cxqKSCrVqZvtSGMPVOiC3k7HlVSwQbOk8AJLT-X3EU3FDh8YccX7zhZ-91ja9TjN7hwIeOuC-d7UOV5AuQw4xyCBkauYZk8_V3Wp2lBSWfC0BHjA4rJUV8"></script> </body> </html>