The 10 Best American Presidents, Ranked By How Much They Loved to Party

The White House has hosted its share of formal dinners, diplomatic receptions, and carefully planned celebrations, but not every president stuck to the official program. Some enjoyed late-night poker games, while others preferred live music, crowded parties, or a good excuse to invite half of Washington over. Bill Clinton famously brought his saxophone into the spotlight, and Andrew Jackson’s inauguration attracted a crowd that practically took over the White House. Even presidents remembered for their serious public images occasionally knew how to entertain. History offers plenty of stories about what happened after the speeches ended. Here are 10 American presidents with particularly memorable party stories.

Bill Clinton Brought His Own Saxophone

Bill Clinton wasn’t just giving speeches at his 1993 inaugural balls. He also played the saxophone and hit the dance floor with Hillary Clinton.

Warren G. Harding Hosted Late-Night Poker Games

Harding regularly played poker with friends at the White House, where whiskey, cigarettes, and late nights were part of his social routine during Prohibition.

Andrew Jackson’s Guests Nearly Took Over the White House

Jackson’s 1829 inaugural reception became so crowded that guests broke dishes and spilled punch, eventually prompting staff to lure people outside with whiskey punch.

Barack Obama Filled the White House With Music

Obama hosted a 2009 celebration honoring Stevie Wonder, followed by Fiesta Latina, which brought performers including Gloria Estefan and Marc Anthony to the White House.

John F. Kennedy Made the White House a Concert Venue

Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy welcomed performers from ballet, opera, and theater, including cellist Pablo Casals, who performed at the White House in November 1961.

Franklin D. Roosevelt Enjoyed a Good Sing-Along

Roosevelt sometimes led guests in impromptu sing-alongs, while his birthday celebrations featured comedy sketches performed by costumed friends and family members.

Theodore Roosevelt Kept the Social Calendar Full

Roosevelt’s White House hosted dinners, musical evenings, and garden parties, while his daughter Alice’s 1906 wedding became a major Washington social event.

Thomas Jefferson Enjoyed Hosting Dinner Parties

Jefferson sometimes hosted four dinners a week, inviting politicians, diplomats, scientists, and writers to enjoy French cuisine and conversation at the White House.

Richard Nixon Played Happy Birthday for a Jazz Legend

Richard Nixon sat down at the White House piano in April 1969 to play “Happy Birthday” for Duke Ellington during the musician’s 70th birthday celebration.

Harry Truman Had Lauren Bacall on His Piano

In 1945, Harry Truman played the piano while actress Lauren Bacall sat on top during an event entertaining servicemen at Washington’s National Press Club.