January 15, 2021—The inauguration of President-Elect Joseph R. Biden next Wednesday, January 20 presents a valuable real-world learning opportunity for students and provides a lesson in one of the great traditions of our democracy: the peaceful transition of power.
We are sharing the information and resources below to help you and your student learn more about this inauguration and the history of presidential inaugurations.
Details for the 59th Inaugural Ceremonies:
Live coverage of the event will be livestreamed and available on all major networks, beginning at approximately 11:30 a.m.
President-Elect Joseph R. Biden will become the 46th President of the United States and will be sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building at noon. Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris also will be sworn in at this time.
In-person attendance at the inauguration will be limited to members of Congress; the National Mall will be closed on Inauguration Day.
President-Elect Biden will share his Inaugural Address after he is sworn in.
Rather than the traditional parade that occurs on Pennsylvania Avenue, the Bidens will arrive at the White House with a Presidential escort provided by members of the U.S. military. A “virtual parade” that showcases communities across the country will be televised.
Later in the evening, at 8:30 p.m., “Celebrating America,” a primetime television program hosted by Tom Hanks, will air instead of traditional inaugural balls. Participating artists include Ant Clemons, Jon Bon Jovi, Demi Lovato and Justin Timberlake.
At 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday January 19, there will be a lighting ceremony around the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in remembrance of those who have lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic.
Additional inauguration information:
Since 1901, and in accordance with the 20th Amendment of the United States Constitution, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) has been responsible for the planning and execution of the Inaugural Ceremonies of the President-elect and Vice President-elect of the United States at the Capitol.
The current JCCIC consists of six members: Chairman Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO), Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).
These eight events are commonly included on Inauguration Day (and fall under the jurisdiction of the JCCIC): President and Vice-President Procession to the Capitol, Vice President’s Swearing-In; President’s Swearing-In; Inaugural Address; the Honorary Departure of the outgoing president; the Signing Ceremony; the Inaugural Luncheon; and the Pass in Review of U.S. military troops. Learn more about the Inaugural Events and interesting facts about past inaugurations.
Additional resources for parents and students:
We hope this information is helpful and that it provides an additional way for you and your student to engage in learning more about our country, our government and our democracy.