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U.S. Senate Photo Studio

The members of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies meet to establish the committee: (l. to r.) Senator Lamar Alexander, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, Speaker of the House John A. Boehner, Chairman Charles E. Schumer, House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

For more than two hundred years America’s citizens have witnessed the Inauguration ceremonies of the President and Vice President of the United States. From the first Inauguration of George Washington, in New York City, in 1789, to today, as we prepare for the 57th quadrennial Presidential Inauguration, the swearing-in ceremonies represents both national renewal and continuity of leadership. As each president has offered a vision for America’s future, we reflect on the heritage of Inaugurations past.

Inauguration Day Events

Step through a typical day for the president-elect, from the morning worship service to the nighttime Inaugural balls.

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Committee History

Discover how the Inaugural Committee came to be, how it is formed and its purpose.

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Facts, Firsts and Precedents

First President to take the oath of office and deliver the Inaugural address outdoors; ceremony took place on platform in front of the temporary Brick Capitol (where Supreme Court now stands). The original plan for Madison's second Inauguration called for a ceremony in the House chamber of the temporary Capitol, but when a small feud ensued between the Senate and the House of Representatives over what chairs would be used in the House chamber, the venue changed to an outdoor platform in front of the building.

—Eighth Inaugural Ceremonies

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