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Guide to the Presidential Inauguration

Celebrate the U.S. Presidential Inauguration from home this year.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee asks that Americans stay home and celebrate this year's inauguration virtually. District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser issued an order that pauses museum operations and indoor dining until Friday, Jan. 22, 2021 at 5 a.m. Even for those activities that are not paused by order, the Mayor strongly encourages residents and visitors to be cautious and to limit their exposure to other people so as to limit the spread of COVID-19. Note the latest travel safety information before planning any visit to DC.

There are few events that you can experience that are guaranteed to go down in history. The President’s swearing-in ceremony is one of them. This year, watch from home as president-elect Joe Biden and vice president-elect Kamala Harris are sworn in. 

Take in the Action

The official proceedings of Inauguration Day commence around noon on Jan. 20 on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, with the vice president-elect and president-elect taking the Oaths of Office, followed by the inaugural address.

 

This year, the official swearing-in ceremony will be held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 20, 2021, with in-person attendance limited to Congress due to safety protocols. Tune in to the official Presidential Inauguration YouTube channel to see official events. 

Instead of a traditional inaugural parade, the Bidens will arrive at the White House with a presidential escort consisting of representatives from every branch of the military. A “virtual parade” showcasing communities across the country will be televised. The parade will begin at approximately 3 p.m. on Inauguration Day. Visit the website of the Presidential Inauguration Committee for more information.

Please note that a virtual lighting ceremony honoring American lives lost due to COVID-19 will take place on Jan. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Communities across the country are invited to join by lighting buildings and ringing church bells.

 

There will be a primetime television program hosted by Tom Hanks at 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 titled “Celebrating America” instead of traditional inaugural balls. Participating artists include Ant Clemons, Jon Bon Jovi, Demi Lovato and Justin Timberlake. 

Tune in to the official Presidential Inauguration YouTube channel to find more official events. 

 

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