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Inauguration Day Events

St. John's Church at 16th and H St, NW, Washington, D.C., ca. 1920-1950 (Library of Congress, Theodor Horydczak Collection) Morning Worship Service
The tradition of attending a morning worship service on Inauguration Day began with Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover in convertible automobile on way to Capitol for Roosevelt's inauguration, March 4, 1933 (Architect of the Capitol) Procession to the Capitol
By tradition, the outgoing President accompanies the President-elect to the Capitol for the swearing-in ceremony.
Vice President Wheeler taking the oath of office in the Senate Chamber, March 4, 1877 (U.S. Senate Collection) Vice President's Swearing-in Ceremony
Until 1937, the Vice President was sworn into office in the Senate chamber.
George H. W. Bush taking the oath of office, January 20, 1989 (Architect of the Capitol) President's Swearing-in Ceremony
There have been 54 formal Presidential Inaugural ceremonies, held at over 10 different locations.

 


Woodrow Wilson delivering his Inaugural address, March 5, 1917 (Library of Congress) Inaugural Address
Since George Washington in 1789, every President has delivered an Inaugural address, ranging from 8,445 words, to just 135.
White House luncheon on March 5th, 1877 (U.S. Senate Collection) Inaugural Luncheon
Since 1953, the JCCIC has hosted a luncheon at the U.S. Capitol for the new President, Vice President, and guests.
President and Mrs. Reagan during the Inaugural parade, January 20, 1981 (Architect of the Capitol) Inaugural Parade
While early parades were mostly military escorts, by 1841, floats, citizens groups, and bands became standard.
President and Mrs. William J. Clinton dancing at the Inaugural ball, January 20, 1993 (Library of Congress, courtesy of the White House) Inaugural Ball
The first Inaugural ball in Washington was thrown for James and Dolley Madison in 1809, at Long's Hotel. There have been as many as 14 balls.