FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When and where do the Inaugural Ceremonies take place?

The Inaugural Ceremonies take place on January 20, in accordance with the Twentieth Amendment to the United States Constitution. If January 20 occurs on a Sunday, the public swearing-in ceremony and related events will take place on January 21.

The Inaugural Ceremonies have been held in a variety of locations over the years. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan’s swearing-in ceremony was held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building for the first time. Subsequent swearing-in ceremonies have continued to be held on the West Front, except in instances of severe cold weather.

Do I need a ticket to attend the Inauguration?

There are non-ticketed standing room areas are available on the National Mall west of 4th Street. While you will only have a distant view of the stage, large video screens are placed throughout these areas, broadcasting the ceremony live.

However, there are ticketed viewing areas, and they provide the best vantage points for watching the swearing-in ceremony. Ticketed sections are positioned closest to the Capitol Building and may also include a seat.

How do I get a ticket for the Inauguration?

There are two ways to secure tickets for the official swearing-in ceremony on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol:

1. Through Your Congressional Representative or Senators: This is the primary method for most attendees. Each Member of Congress receives a limited number of tickets to distribute to their constituents. Find your Representative or Senators here: www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

  • When to Apply: Ticket requests typically open several months in advance of the inauguration (usually in the fall of the year preceding the inauguration). Keep a close eye on your representative’s and senators’ official websites for announcements and application procedures.
  • Application Process: Be prepared to fill out an online form with your personal information. Due to high demand, tickets are often distributed via a lottery system.
  • Tips: Contact both your House Representative and your two Senators. The more requests you put in, the better your chances. Be persistent but polite.

 

2. Through the official Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC): Congress also allocates tickets for the swearing-in ceremony to the PIC (formed by the President-elect after the election). While the PIC usually distributes these tickets to direct supporters, they may also have tickets available for the general public. Please note that the PIC also organizes various inaugural balls and events, some of which may have tickets available for purchase or through specific lottery systems. Keep an eye on the official PIC website once established after the election.

How much do Inauguration tickets cost?

Nothing. Official inaugural tickets to the swearing-in ceremony are free and distributed by Congressional offices and the Presidential Inaugural Committee. Beware of third-party sellers claiming to have tickets for sale. As printed on the back of the tickets, tickets are “NOT FOR SALE.”

What are the best transportation options for getting to the Inauguration?

Metro (Subway): The Metro is generally the most efficient way to get around D.C. on Inauguration Day. However, be prepared for large crowds and lines. Consider purchasing a SmarTrip card, or downloading the WMATA app, in advance and load it with sufficient round-trip fare. Check WMATA (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) for service updates closer to the date, or plan your route in advance: www.wmata.com

Walking: Once in the vicinity of the Capitol and National Mall, walking will be your primary mode of transportation. Clear signage will provide directions to event viewing areas and ticketed sections, as well as to Metro stations. For individuals with accessibility needs, follow posted signage for accessible routes and viewing areas.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Road closures will disrupt normal traffic patterns making travel by car, bus or rideshare/taxi less reliable and potentially very slow. Don’t rely on them as your primary mode of transport to the main event areas.

How can I attend an Inaugural Ball?

Official Inaugural Balls are organized by the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC). The PIC will be assembled after the election, and more information will be made available at that time.

How can I attend the Inaugural Parade?

The Inaugural Parade takes place after the swearing-in ceremony along Pennsylvania Avenue NW between the Capitol Building and The White House. General viewing areas are open to the public, while tickets for special viewings areas are available through the PIC.

The Inaugural Parade is organized by the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC). After the PIC is assembled after the election, it will release information about the Inaugural Parade on its website.

How can I be considered to perform at the Inauguration?

Please contact the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC), which coordinates entertainment and performances. The PIC will be assembled after the election, and contact information will be made available at that time.

What items are prohibited at the Inauguration?

The United States Capitol Police and United States Secret Service will publish lists of prohibited items for areas under their respective jurisdictions prior to the Inauguration. Please leave prohibited items at your accommodation prior to traveling to the event, as they will not be allowed in the viewing areas.