We’ve compiled all the dos and don’ts for the U.S. Presidential Inauguration to make it easy for you to enjoy the celebration.
There are few events that you can plan on attending that are guaranteed to go down in history. The President’s swearing-in ceremony is one of them. Come to Washington, DC as the nation swears in the 47th President of the United States on Jan. 20, 2025. Soak up the atmosphere throughout the city and celebrate this special day that’s all about American tradition and celebration.
Where to take in the action
The official proceedings of Inauguration Day commence around noon on Jan. 20 on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, with the vice president-elect J.D. Vance and president-elect Donald Trump taking the Oaths of Office, followed by an inaugural address.
Typically, the timing of the day is as follows: Security screening gates open at 6 a.m., followed by music at approximately 9:30 a.m. and opening remarks at 11:30 a.m.
You must have a ticket to attend the swearing-in-ceremony. Tickets are free, but they’re in high demand and must be applied for through your local representative or senator's office. Giant video screens and audio systems will also stream the proceedings to the thousands of spectators on the National Mall.
Position yourself along Pennsylvania Avenue to cheer on the presidential procession and inaugural parade as it makes its way from the U.S. Capitol to the White House. A limited number of bleacher seats can be reserved through the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, though viewing from the sidewalk is free and unreserved. The parade will begin at approximately 3 p.m. on Inauguration Day.
Toast to the new president at an inaugural ball
Revelers may want to don a tuxedo or evening dress and dance the night away, and they’ll have plenty of options. Inauguration Day brings glitz and glamour to DC with the big names in politics, business and entertainment descending on the city. Many of the top caterers are booked a year in advance and some luxury stores have pop-ups in high-end hotels for any last-minute wardrobe changes.
There are official and unofficial balls, the difference being that the newly named president and vice president attend many of the official balls. Members of the public can apply for tickets to these via the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. Alternatively, you can buy a ticket for one of the many unofficial balls directly from the host venues or organizations.
Security
Presidential inaugurations are a festive experience, though as with any event of this size, being prepared will make it smoother and more enjoyable. Be sure to check advisories ahead of time. It is cold in January in DC, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Thousands of portable toilets are brought onto National Mall and placed in front of Metro stations for the event. Bring your own water and snacks or purchase from on-site vendors. There are also numerous restaurants near the National Mall.
If you’re a ticket holder to any event, you will have to pass through security screening. Make sure to bring your photo ID and check the list of prohibited items ahead of time.
Accommodation is at an absolute premium in Washington, DC over Inauguration Day. Room rates rise and many hotels require several nights’ minimum stay; check out current packages and deals.
Driving is not recommended. Parking will be limited and there will be road closures to accommodate the crowds and parade, so visitors are recommended to walk, bike and/or use the Metro.
If you are using a ride sharing app such as Uber or Lyft, there will be a geofence around the security perimeter, meaning the apps will not work inside it. Attendees using the services will have to leave the perimeter to get picked up.
Please note that Smithsonian museums are closed on Inauguration Day.
Visit our Inauguration landing page for more inspiration and information for your trip to the nation's capital.
More About DC
