When is the 2021 U.S. Presidential Inauguration?

The U.S. Presidential Inauguration will be held on January 20, 2021.

What events make up the Presidential Inauguration?

The inauguration of the U.S. President has changed over the centuries.  Today, the traditional activities that constitute Inauguration Day include morning worship, the trip to the Capitol, the swearing-in ceremonies of the Vice President and the President, the Inaugural Address, the exit of the outgoing president, the president’s luncheon, the Inaugural Parade, and an evening of inaugural balls.

How do I get tickets to the inaugural events?

Tickets to the Swearing-In Ceremony are requested from Congressional offices.  Tickets to official balls are distributed by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, which is typically formed after the November election.  Read more about Getting Tickets.

How many inaugural balls are scheduled for the Inauguration?

There is no limit to the number of balls that may be held, but only a handful of “official” balls are typically planned.  These are organized by the Presidential Inaugural Committee and are different from the more numerous “unofficial” balls which are organized by state societies, private organizations, businesses, and other groups.  For the 2005 inauguration, eight official balls were held, in 2009 ten were held, and in 2013 only two were held.  In contrast, there are typically dozens of unofficial balls held.  In 2009, party-goers celebrated at over one hundred unofficial galas.

Who organizes official inaugural events?

Typically, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies and the Presidential Inaugural Committee organize major inaugural events. The Joint Task Force-National Capital Region also helps in organizing the Inaugural Parade.

Who is on the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies?

Members of both political parties from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives are on the JCCIC.  For the 2013 inauguration, JCCIC committee members included Sen. Charles E. Schumer (Chairman), Sen. Harry Reid, Sen. Lamar Alexander, Rep. John Boehner, Rep. Eric Cantor, and Rep. Nancy Pelosi.  In 2021, JCCIC members include Sen. Roy Blunt (Chairman), Sen. Mitch McConnell, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, and Rep. Steny Hoyer.

Who organizes unofficial inaugural events?

Unofficial events are organized by a wide range of groups, such as businesses, foundations, state societies, and private parties.  Many of these events are open to the public.