Inauguration Day Events
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Morning
Worship ServiceThe tradition of attending a morning worship service on Inauguration Day began with Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933.
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Procession to
the CapitolBy tradition, the outgoing President accompanies the President-elect to the Capitol for the swearing-in ceremony.
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Vice President’s
Swearing-In CeremonyUntil 1937, the Vice President was sworn into office in the Senate chamber.
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President’s
Swearing-In CeremonyThere have been 54 formal Presidential Inaugural ceremonies, held at over 10 different locations.
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Inaugural Address
Since George Washington in 1789, every President has delivered an Inaugural address, ranging from 8,445 words, to just 135.
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Departure of the
Outgoing PresidentFollowing the inaugural ceremony on the west front of the U.S. Capitol, the outgoing President and First Lady leave the Capitol to begin their post-presidential lives.
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Inaugural Luncheon
Since 1953, the JCCIC has hosted a luncheon at the U.S. Capitol for the new President, Vice President, and guests.
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Inaugural Parade
While early parades were mostly military escorts, by 1841, floats, citizens groups, and bands became standard.
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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.