Inauguration of the President of the United States
The inauguration is the ceremony in which the newly elected president and vice president are sworn into office. This event occurs every four years on January 20 at noon, unless the 20th falls on a Sunday, in which case it is held on January 21. The ceremony takes place at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C.
History
The first inauguration took place on April 30, 1789, with President George Washington. From 1793 to 1933, all inaugurations were held on March 4, the day the federal government began operations under the U.S. Constitution. After the ratification of the Twentieth Amendment, which changed the start and end dates of the presidential and vice presidential terms, the inauguration date was moved to January 20 in 1937.
What to Expect
The main ceremony consists of several parts and begins around noon with a musical performance and opening remarks. The vice president-elect will be sworn in first, repeating an oath that has been used since 1884 for many federal employees:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God.”
At noon, the new president and vice president will begin their terms, and the president-elect will recite the following oath from Article II, Section 1 of the United States Constitution:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
After taking the oath, the new president will deliver their inaugural address before departing.
Who Will Be Invited?
Expect to see several well-known political figures at the inauguration. This typically includes former presidents, members of Congress from both parties, and Supreme Court justices. While it’s uncommon, foreign leaders may also attend. Additionally, various celebrities and advisors may be present to support the president-elect. The public can also attend, as tickets are distributed. To learn how to obtain a ticket, check with your congressional representative.
What Happens Next?
After the main ceremony, the new president and vice president will begin their official duties. The president will sign their first official documents and orders, followed by an inaugural luncheon with members of Congress. A presidential parade will take place down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House. In the evening, there will be several inaugural balls, and it is expected that the President and First Lady will attend multiple festivities.
