2020-10-23 14:18:07
INAUGURATION DAY The 20th amendment of the Constitution specifies that the elected U.S. president’s term begins at noon on Jan. 20. Since FDR in 1933, the day starts with private services and ends with a parade and inaugural balls held across the city. DAY-OF DETAILS Swearing-In Ceremony The chief justice of the Supreme Court traditionally swears in the new commander-in-chief on the Western front of the U.S. Capitol facing the National Mall. Inaugural Address The president gives an address after the swearing in, a tradition since George Washington in 1789. Entertainment The ceremony often includes poetry and music from renowned artists. DAY-OF TIPS Dress warmly Winter in the nation’s capital can be cold, so pack layers. Wear comfortable shoes Walk or take Metro to avoid road closures, and plan for crowds. Where to stay Near the White House, The Hay-Adams and Willard InterContinental have hosted past presidents-elect and The Mayflower Hotel has held presidential balls. The Watergate Hotel, known for its own part in presidential history, is an option in Foggy Bottom. GET IN THE SPIRIT Channel presidential history at many of the city’s museums and landmarks Tour the U.S. Capitol or the White House. Visit the presidential memorials and monuments: Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and the most recent, Dwight D. Eisenhower. View the Presidential Portrait collection at the National Portrait Gallery. See the First Ladies Collection and presidential accessories (like Abraham Lincoln’s top hat worn the night he was assassinated) at the National Museum of American History. For more about the inauguration, visit WASHINGTON.ORG/INAUGURATION
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