Happy Birthday, Mr. President

Description

The most famous birthday celebration for President John F. Kennedy took place on May 19, 1962, at Madison Square Garden. Held as a Democratic Party fundraiser, the star-studded gala drew about 15,000 attendees. The highlight was Marilyn Monroe’s sultry rendition of “Happy Birthday,” followed by performances from Ella Fitzgerald, Maria Callas, and Peter Lawford. Kennedy was also presented with a multi-tiered cake bearing the presidential seal.

Celebrated, May 19, 1962

Birthday, May 29, 1962

Related People & Organizations

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Marilyn Monroe,The event is most remembered for Marilyn Monroe's sultry rendition of "Happy Birthday, Mr. President", wearing a dazzling, skintight dress. After Monroe's performance, President Kennedy humorously remarked, "I can now retire from politics after having had 'Happy Birthday' sung to me in such a sweet, wholesome way".

1962 - Celebrated

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1962 - Celebrated - Images

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View of Madison Square Garden during a Democratic Party fund-raising dinner and birthday salute to President John F. Kennedy. New York City, New York

President John F. Kennedy

Singer, Miriam Makeba (far right), and an unidentified band perform

Singer, Harry Belafonte (center), and an unidentified band

Members of the Jerome Robbins' Ballets: USA dance company

1962

Monroe with U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, President John F. Kennedy

President John F. Kennedy

President John F. Kennedy speaks

Actor and singer, Shirley MacLaine

Entertainers, Shirley MacLaine (left) and Jimmy Durante

Soprano opera singer, Maria Callas

Actor, Elliott Reid

Comedian, Jack Benny

Singer, Ella Fitzgerald

Actor and singer, Marilyn Monroe

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