Swearing-In

Yes and no. The National Mall is open to the public, and many Jumbotrons will be set up all around the Mall. However there are ticketed areas containing both standing room only and seated areas that require tickets.

Tickets for the Swearing-In Ceremony are extremely limited and in very high demand. Tickets are distributed in advance by members of the Senate and the House of Representatives. As they can be very difficult to obtain, some tickets may be available through the secondary ticket market as well.

Every 4 years, the Presidential Inaugural Committee organizes the official Inaugural events. This Committee does not assemble until after the election, so information regarding COVID-19 strategies is not currently available. We will publish this information as it is released, so check back often!

Yes. A ticket is required for every person, including children and infants in arms.

Here is a list of prohibited items for the ticketed sections of the 2017 Swearing-In Ceremony. This list changes slightly for each Inauguration, so check back later for the Official 2021 Prohibited Items list.

Yes. While there are no specific handicap tickets, there will be sections provided inside each area for persons with a disability.

The gates to the mall will most likely open at 5:00am, and the ticketed areas are usually filled by 8:00am. The ceremony will begin around 11:30am with a musical performance prior to that time.

The front sections are mostly reserved for members of Congress and their families. Tickets for the outer seated areas are distributed through your local Congressional representatives.

Yes. Passing through security can be a lengthy process so be sure to arrive early. It is best to pack lightly and dress warmly with comfortable shoes, as you will be on your feet for a substantial amount of time.

Weather is usually quite cold in January in Washington D.C., so be sure to dress warmly and comfortably. Hand warmers and comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, as you will be doing a lot of standing and walking throughout the morning and into the afternoon.