Guide to Inaugural Events in Washington, DC

The Presidential Inauguration will be held on January 20, 2009. A week of festivities will include the Presidential Swearing-in Ceremony, Inaugural Address, Inaugural Parade and numerous inaugural balls and galas honoring the new President of the United States. The official theme for the 2009 inauguration is “Renewing America’s Promise,“ a vision that underscores the President-elect and Vice President-elect’s commitment to restoring opportunity and possibility for all and re-establishing America’s standing as a beacon of hope around the world.



Overview of the Inauguration Schedule

Saturday, January 17 - Obama, Biden and their families will travel by train to Washington, DC and will host events along the way in Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore. See the schedule.

Sunday, January 18 – An official welcome concert will be held on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to kick off the inaugural celebration. The event will be open to the public and broadcast live exclusively on HBO. See details including the lineup of performers.

Monday, January 19 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - To honor Dr. King’s legacy, Obama, Biden and their families will participate in activities dedicated to serving others in communities across the Washington, DC area. Additional events will be held throughout the week. See the schedule of events.

Inaugural Eve Concert for America's Children - A free youth concert will be held at the Verizon Center. The concert will be broadcast on Disney Channel 8:00 - 9:30 p.m. EST. Read more.

Tuesday, January 20 - Inauguration Day- Swearing-in ceremony, Inaugural Parade, and official Inaugural Balls. (See details below)

The 2009 inaugural events are expected to draw record breaking crowds to Washington, DC. Getting around the region throughout the four-day inaugural weekend will be challenging. Washington Metro is gearing up for the events with increased hours and security. See Inauguration 2009 Transportation Guide for details. Inauguration Swearing-in Ceremony - BROADCAST LIVE AT 11:30 a.m. EST January 20, 2009 - The oath of office will be administered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. Following the oath of office, the President will give his inaugural address, setting out his vision for America and goals for the nation.

TIME: Security checkpoints will open for the Inaugural Swearing-in Ceremony at 8 a.m. Ticketed guests are advised to arrive by 9 a.m. Ceremony begins at 11:30 a.m. EST. See details about the program.

TICKETS: Each Senator and Representative receives a limited quantity of free tickets that they may distribute to the public at their discretion. The public should be aware that no website or other ticket outlet actually has inaugural swearing-in tickets to sell, regardless of what they may claim.

Those who come to witness the swearing-in ceremony will be able to watch and listen to the ceremony on large screens that will be set up along the National Mall.

Presidential Inauguration Parade

January 20, 2009, 2:30 p.m. Tickets are not required. The public will not be allowed to lineup along the parade route before 7 a.m.

Location: Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC (Viewing stands and bleachers will extend from 3rd to 17th Sts).

The presidential inaugural parade is coordinated by the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee (AFIC) which includes members from all branches of the armed forces of the United States. Since 1789, the U.S. armed forces have participated in this important American tradition honoring our commander in chief with musical units, marching bands, color guards, salute batteries and honor cordons.

Inauguration Balls

Many inaugural balls and galas will take place at venues throughout Washington, DC from January 15 - 24, 2009. The official balls are planned by the Presidential Inaugural Committee and unofficial balls and parties are planned by the State Societies of Washington, DC and a variety of other organizations. Dozens of events will be announced in the coming weeks.

Inauguration Travel Information and Tips

The best way to get to the inaugural events from around the region will be by Metro. However, it will be very crowded and there are likely to be long lines and delays. Arrive early and be patient. You should purchase your Metro fare in advance to save time. Read A Guide to Using Washington Metrorail for more details.

All parade and event attendees will be subject to a thorough security screening. Allow for additional time and be aware of prohibited items. Read more about Inauguration Security.

Dress for the weather! January in Washington, DC can be very cold. Temperatures are expected to be in the low 30s. Be sure to wear layers, a hat, scarf and gloves. DC weather is variable so be prepared for a cold and damp day. Umbrellas will not be allowed due to security concerns.

Following the inaugural parade, plan to stay in the city and visit a museum or go to a movie. Let the crowd thin out before taking public transportation out of town.

For more information about getting to the events, See Inauguration 200 Transportation Guide.

Sightseeing Suggestions

Inauguration Themed Exhibits at the Smithsonian - See special exhibits and explore the life and times of the nation’s presidents.

Lincoln Bicentennial Exhibits - Vist DC museums and see special exhibits honoring the life of Abraham Lincoln.

American Indian Multicultural Festival - The National Museum of the American Indian will host a 3-day festival with live music, dancing and storytelling.

Visit the National Monuments and Memorials - Washington, DC's memorials are special tributes and wonderful attractions. Please note that the Washington Monument will be closed on Jan. 20.

Explore Washington, DC Neighborhoods - Get off the National Mall, get away from the crowds and experience Washington, DC's eclectic neighborhoods.

Alexandria Restaurant Week - Take advantage of some great dining specials.