January 20

Inauguration Day

Ring in a new era this Inauguration Day! Experience the historic moment where tradition meets transformation.

Yearly Date

Every Four Years on January 20

Observed in

Introduction

Ring in a new era this Inauguration Day celebrated on January 20! This powerful day marks the commencement of a new four-year term for the President of the United States. Inauguration Day comes from the Latin word augur, which refers to a ceremonial practice of ancient Rome to foretell whether the gods approved of a course of action. Since the first ceremony held for George Washington in 1789, Inauguration Day has evolved into a grand celebration of democracy and a peaceful transition of power, filled with parades, speeches, and balls. Experience this historic moment where tradition meets transformation and dive into the rich tapestry of American politics on this significant day.

Inauguration Day Timeline

1789

First Presidential Inauguration

George Washington's first inauguration set the precedent for future presidential inaugurations, establishing traditions that continue to this day.

1801

First Inaugural Parade

Thomas Jefferson started the tradition of parades on Inauguration Day when he walked from the Capitol to the President's House.

1937

Inauguration Date Change

The 20th Amendment moved the date of presidential inaugurations from March 4 to January 20.

1961

"Ask Not" Inaugural Address

John F. Kennedy gave his famous "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country" speech during his inauguration.

2009

Historic Obama Inauguration

Barack Obama's inauguration marked the first time a black man took the presidential oath of office, highlighting a pivotal moment in American history.

2021

First Female Vice President Sworn In

Kamala Harris became the first female, first black, and first Asian Vice President of the United States during Joe Biden's inauguration.

How to Celebrate Inauguration Day

1 Host an Inaugural trivia night

Break out the board games and gather your friends and family for a trivia night themed around inauguration history. Learn about past presidents, inaugural addresses, and little-known inaugural facts while having a ton of fun.

2 Create a themed menu

Cook a feast of dishes that commemorate the incoming president’s home state or favorite foods. Alternatively, you could also include dishes preferred by past presidents. This cultural and culinary exploration could be a delicious way to celebrate.

3 Partake in a viewing Party

Throw a viewing party to watch the presidential inauguration ceremony live with your friends and family. You can discuss policies and expectations over finger foods, presenting a perfect opportunity to open dialogue on socio-political matters while breaking bread.

4 Compose an inaugural address

Take on the role of the president and compose your own inaugural address. Share your vision of governance, society, and the country’s future with your friends and family, encouraging everyone to think actively about the direction they want their country to take.

5 Hold a mini reenactment

Get into the spirit of Inauguration Day with a playful reenactment featuring neighbors, friends or family. Assign roles of the president, vice president, and chief justice among other characters and host your own mini inauguration at home.

Why Inauguration Day is Important

Witness History in the Making

Inauguration Day is a pivotal moment when the current leader takes the oath of office and officially begins their term as the President of the United States. As citizens, we get to witness the setting in motion of a new era of governance and see history being written in real-time.

Celebrate Democracy

Inauguration Day is not merely about inaugurating a new president, but it is also a grand celebration of democracy and peaceful transition of power. Even if your preferred candidate did not win, it's an opportunity to unite as a country and show respect for the democratic process.

Engage in Thought-Provoking Discussions

Inauguration Day prompts us to critically engage with sociopolitical issues. Watching the new leader outline their vision for the country offers a perfect opportunity to discuss policies, societal challenges, and our expectations for the next four years with friends, families, and peers.