The inauguration of George Washington, the first president of the United States, took place on April 30th, 1789. The United States presidential inauguration of 2025 took place Monday, January 20th. The inauguration is the ceremony of the swearing in of the vice-president and president-elect. The presidential inauguration takes place every four years on January 20th, or January 21st if the 20th falls on a Sunday. It takes place at the U.S. Capitol building and will happen next on January 20th, 2029.
During the ceremony, the vice president is sworn in with the oath of office used since 1884. After the vice president is sworn in, the president- elect later recites the following to be sworn in, "I do solemnly swear [or affirm] that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." Typically, when sworn in, the president will take this oath using a bible. After the oaths are taken, the inaugural address is given to those in attendance and watching at home.
The previous presidency and vice-presidency end at noon, after the swear in. By then, the White House will have been vacated of the president and the presidential family of the previous term. They will leave the capitol in an “Honorary Departure.” Afterwards, the official signing ceremony takes place.
Afterwards, an inaugural parade outside of the capitol building commences. At the very end of the day, the new president and first lady will attend an inaugural ball. The inauguration ceremony is a presidential duty and tradition.
Historically, there have often been interesting, funny, and even out-of-pocket inauguration moments. When Andrew Jackson was inaugurated the post oath celebration included fainting women, manly brawls, and great confusion. During Harrison’s inauguration, he refused to wear winter protection and caught a cold. This turned into pneumonia and led to his death one month after his oath was taken. Finally, Eisenhower’s inauguration took a humorous turn as he was lassoed as he presided over an inaugural parade.
Madeline Speights