Lafayette’s Visit to Kennebunk: Bicentennial Event

The American Friends of Lafayette present an elaborate national tour commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Farewell Tour of the Marquis de Lafayette, one of the last surviving generals of the American Revolution. In response to France’s alliance with the American colonies to fight the British, Lafayette arrived in America in 1777 to serve alongside the colonists. In 1824, President James Monroe invited Lafayette to return to the United States as the nation’s guest, where he visited all 24 states in the union. He is sometimes known as “The Hero of the Two Worlds” for his accomplishments in the service of both France and the United States.

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Beginning in August 2024, a thirteen-month bicentennial celebration of Lafayette’s triumphant return tour of the United States kicked off in New York City. During the next thirteen months, the tour will follow Lafayette’s footsteps through the then-existing 24 states in the exact order he traveled in 1824 and 1825. To learn more about the entire route, visit the American Friends of Lafayette.

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Following the schedule of June 24, 1825, The Marquis de Lafayette (living history actor) will be visiting Kennebunk at 3:00pm on June 24, 2025!

Noontime: Picnic Lunch in Lafayette Park! Citizens are invited to bring a picnic lunch to Lafayette Park on Storer Street to commemorate Lafayette’s visit to Kennebunk.

3:00pm: Join the Brick Store Museum at 117 Main Street to enjoy tea and cookies, and a pop-up exhibit, outside in the courtyard (or inside if inclement weather) as we await Lafayette’s arrival

3:30pm: The Marquis de Lafayette will make an historic speech to the crowd and meet & greet visitors.

4:30pm: Assemble in the second story windows of the Brick Store Museum for a photo with Lafayette! In 1825, workers constructing the Brick Store waived out these same windows as Lafayette rode past on his way to Biddeford.