It's not truly the Fourth of July until the Kennedy clan gathers, smiles wide, flags waving, and cameras rolling. This year was no exception. Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy and niece of President John F. Kennedy, once again gave the world a peek into her family's iconic Independence Day celebrations via Instagram, and it was everything you'd hope for from America's most famous political dynasty.
On Saturday, July 5, Kerry posted a video montage showing dozens of Kennedys, including babies in arms, dogs underfoot, and generations deep, posing on the lawn of the family's legendary Hyannis Port compound. Set against the classic Cape Cod backdrop, the Kennedys were seen in full patriotic spirit, gathered to celebrate the nation's birthday and a pair of Kennedy family birthdays that fall on the same date.
"Happy birthday Chris, Kathleen and America! 🇺🇸," Kerry wrote in the caption. She was, of course, shouting out her younger brother Chris Kennedy, who turned 62, and her older sister Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, who turned 72. Birthday wishes were woven into the video itself, with homemade signs, smiles, and good old-fashioned Kennedy cheer.
And yes, one sneaky dog stole the show when it was caught snagging a bite from a plate while the family posed. Even in Camelot, the pups know how to party.
A Street Race, A Cause, and a Tribute
Beyond the birthday wishes and family photos, Kerry also used her social media platform to highlight meaningful traditions and causes close to her heart.
On her Instagram Stories, she shared footage from a beloved Hyannis Port tradition, the annual street race, where family members and locals lace up for a fun run through the neighborhood. Then, in a more serious moment, she included a link to the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights nonprofit, a staple in the Kennedy legacy of activism. "Please join us in defending the core American liberties and values that we all hold dear: democracy, accountability, and equality before the law," she urged.
Missing Faces and a Memory That Lingers
Notably absent from the footage was Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Kerry's brother. RFK Jr. made headlines during the 2024 election season while running as an independent candidate. Since then, RFK Jr. has taken a surprising political turn, currently serving as Secretary of Health and Human Services in President Trump's second administration.
More poignantly, Kerry paid tribute to their late mother, Ethel Kennedy, who passed away in October 2024 at the age of 96. In a heartfelt post, she honored the matriarch's deep sense of patriotism, not just through parades and parties, but through purpose.
The annual Kennedy Fourth of July gathering is more than just a family reunion. It's a vivid reminder that patriotism comes in many forms. The Hyannis Port festivities offer a uniquely American snapshot, blending classic summer scenes with a multi-generational legacy that continues to shape the nation's story.