Inaugural Balls
‘A New Birth
of Freedom’
“A New Birth of Freedom” commemorates the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and expresses Lincoln’s hope that the sacrifice of those who died to preserve the nation shall lead to “a new birth of freedom” for it.
Tickets
Tickets to the Swearing-In Ceremony are distributed by both Senators and Representatives elected to the 111th Congress.
Parade
Requests to participate in Inauguration day events for marching bands, marching units, mounted units, and other performers are collected by the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee.
Balls
The Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) is responsible for all balls hosted in honor of the newly-elected President.
The Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) is responsible for the official inaugural balls hosted in honor of the newly-elected President.
To request inaugural ball tickets or
for more information, please contact the Presidential Inaugural Committee.
Facts & Firsts
The first Inaugural Ball was held March 4, 1809 for President James Madison. Read other facts and firsts.
Inaugural Balls Past
On May 7, 1789, one week after the inauguration of George Washington in New York City, sponsors held a ball to honor the new President. Read more about the history of Inaugural balls.