Relive JFK and Jackie Kennedy’s Magical Newport Wedding This Fall

The Kennedys have deep roots in Massachusetts. From the Kennedy Compound and Museum on Cape Cod to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Dorchester, the Kennedys and Massachusetts go hand in hand.

However, there's another nearby area that holds special meaning to the family: Newport, Rhode Island.

It was the site of Jacqueline Bouvier and John F. Kennedy's wedding day, and you can relive the magic this fall. "Return to Camelot: The Kennedy Wedding Remembered" will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 12 p.m. at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Newport. Doors open at 11:45 a.m.

Reliving the 1953 Kennedy Nuptials at St. Mary’s Church

This event has been extremely popular over the years as the destination is well-known. "People from around the world come to see the church through our Ambassador program," Capital Campaign Chair Charles Kenahan said. "We are truly blessed to be a part of this great community and to call this beautiful church our spiritual home."

READ MORE: A Visit to the JFK Library and Museum in Boston Is Worth Your Time

From Hammersmith Farm to St. Mary’s Restoration Campaign

The Kennedys wed at the church on September 12, 1953. Following their nuptials, the Kennedys and their 800 guests attended the reception at Hammersmith Farm, an oceanfront estate in Newport. While you can still visit St. Mary's, Hammersmith Farm is no longer open to the public. Former Goldman Sachs banker Peter Kiernan purchased the property in 1999 for a little over $8 million.

Event Details, Music, and Supporting Newport Neighbors

Now, you can relive the special day with an event featuring vintage film clips, live organ music and hymns from the Kennedy ceremony. Donations can also be made at the church via a free-will offering, raising funds for St. Mary's Hot Lunch program, serving Newport neighbors in need.

READ MORE: How a Fall River Bakery Made Sweet History on JFK's Wedding Day

The church is also in the midst of a $5,000,000 capital campaign to restore the exterior of the church and replace the roof. "We are one year into the campaign and have raised $3,500,000," Kenehan said. "To date, people from over 30 states and seven countries have contributed based on their love of the church and/or of Newport or their connection to the Kennedy legacy."

Experience a part of the legacy and step back in time to the memorable day in the City by the Sea.