Inaugural Ceremonies

Millions are expected to gather on the National Mall to witness the swearing in of Barack Obama as our Nation’s 44th President on Tuesday, January 20, 2009.  To assist you with information regarding Inaugural events please visit the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies for schedules and ticket information. This site is updated regularly and will provide the most accurate information.

Parking

Parking on the Capitol Complex will be severely limited. All visitors are strongly encouraged to take public transportation.

Tickets

Due to an overwhelming response for tickets to the Inauguration, Congressman Platts’ office has closed its list and is no longer taking names. With or without a ticket you can still witness the swearing-in ceremony. Tickets are not required for visitors willing to position themselves on the National Mall at 4th Street SW back towards the Washington Monument. It’s expected that large television screens will be placed all along the mall area for your viewing pleasure.

Swearing In Ceremony

On Inauguration Day, gates will open at 9 AM and a musical prelude is scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM. The ceremony begins promptly at 11:30 AM. The President will be sworn in on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Inaugural Parade

The Presidential Inaugural Committee organizes the Inaugural Parade. The parade begins at approximately 2:00 PM following the activities at the Capitol. The parade is open to the public with non-ticketed viewing areas. Requests by bands, schools, military personnel, etc. to participate in the Inauguration day events are collected by the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee. After requests are collected, they are submitted to the Presidential Inaugural Committee for participant selection. The parade route will follow Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House.

Inaugural Balls and Parties

The Presidential Inaugural Committee plans all official balls, galas, receptions, parties and the official Inaugural Day Parade. These events do require tickets. Please note that my office does not have access to these tickets. Updated information can be found at the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies web site.