Inauguration Schedule of Events
Planning for the 57th quadrennial presidential inauguration has been under way for months. George Washington’s first inauguration was held in New York City in 1789. But since 1901, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies has been responsible for the planning and execution of the swearing-in ceremonies and luncheon that follows.
Saturday, Jan. 19
National Day of Service Summit on the National Mall, 9:30 a.m.
Kids’ Inaugural Concert, Washington Convention Center, 6 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 20
Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Official Swearing-In, Naval Observatory, 8:15 a.m.
President Barack Obama’s Official Swearing-In, White House — Blue Room, 11:55 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 21
Ceremonial Swearing-In Ceremony, Capitol West Front, 11:30 a.m.
Musical Selections: U.S. Marine Band, PS 22, Staten Island, N.Y., and Lee University Festival Choir, Cleveland, Tenn.
Call to Order and Welcoming Remarks: Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y.
Invocation: Myrlie Evers-Williams
Musical Selection: Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir
Oath of Office Administered to Biden: Justice Sonia Sotomayor
Musical Selection: James Taylor
Oath of Office Administered to Obama: Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.
Inaugural Address: President Barack Obama
Musical Selection: Kelly Clarkson
Poem: Richard Blanco
Benediction: To Be Announced
The National Anthem: Beyoncé
Inaugural Luncheon, Statuary Hall, immediately following swearing-in ceremony
Inaugural Parade, Viewing stands and bleachers are along Pennsylvania Avenue; estimated start time: 2:35 p.m.
The Commander in Chief’s Inaugural Ball, Washington Convention Center; doors open at 6 p.m.
The Inaugural Ball, Washington Convention Center; Halls A, B and C — doors open at 6:30 p.m.; Halls D and E — doors open at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 22
National Prayer Service, Washington National Cathedral, 10:30 a.m.