Clarendon Moms Inauguration Guide 2013
The Presidential Inauguration is around the corner. President Obama will be sworn in for his second term next Monday, January 21st, 2013. The date is also a Federal Holiday commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr. An entire week of festivities will include the Presidential Swearing-in Ceremony, Inaugural Address, Inaugural Parade and numerous inaugural balls and galas honoring President Barack Obama for his second term. The official theme for the 2013 inauguration is “Faith in America’s Future,” monumentalizing the United States’ perseverance and unity, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the placement of the Statue of Freedom atop the Capitol Dome in 1863.
2013 Inauguration Schedule
Saturday, January 19 – National Day of Service. Americans across the country will participate in service projects in their communities to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A Service Summit will be held on the National Mall from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, January 20 – The President will participate in a small private swearing-in ceremony.
Monday, January 21 – Inauguration Day. Swearing-in Ceremony, Inaugural Parade, and official Inaugural Balls
Tuesday, January 22 – Inaugural National Prayer Service, 10:30 a.m. Washington National Cathedral. President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, along with dignitaries and Americans of diverse faiths will attend the service which will include prayer, readings and musical performances. The event is by invitation only and will be webcast live at www.nationalcathedral.org.
Getting to the Events: The 2013 inaugural events are expected to draw large crowds to Washington, DC. Getting around the region throughout the four-day weekend will be challenging.
Inauguration Swearing-in Ceremony
January 21, 2013, beginning around 11:30 a.m. (exact time to be announced) – The oath of office will be administered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. Following the oath of office, the President will give his inaugural address, setting out his vision for America and goals for the nation. See details about the program.
TICKETS: Each Senator and Representative receives a limited quantity of free tickets that they may distribute to the public at their discretion. The public should be aware that no website or other ticket outlet actually has inaugural swearing-in tickets to sell, regardless of what they may claim.
Tickets are not required to watch the swearing-in ceremony on large screens that will be set up along the National Mall.
Presidential Inauguration Parade
January 21, 2013, 2:30 p.m. Tickets are not required.
Location: Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC. Viewing stands and bleachers will extend from 3rd to 17th Sts.
Interesting Fact: The presidential inaugural parade includes members from all branches of the armed forces of the United States. Since 1789, the U.S. armed forces have participated in this important American tradition honoring our commander in chief. During the 10-day inaugural period from January 15 to January 24, 2013, armed forces personnel will provide ceremonial support with musical units, marching bands, color guards, salute batteries and honor cordons.
Many inaugural balls and galas will take place at venues throughout Washington, DC in January 2013. The official balls are planned by the Presidential Inaugural Committee and unofficial balls and parties are planned by the State Societies of Washington, DC and a variety of other organizations. (Please Note: Clarendon Moms is working on a separate Guide to all the Inaugural Balls and Galas).
The best way to get to the inaugural events from around the region will be by Metro. Prepare yourself and your family for long lines and delays. Patience and time management is strongly advised. Purchasing your Metro fare in advance should also save you ad your family time.
All parade and event attendees will be subject to a thorough security screening. Allow for additional time and be aware of prohibited items.
Dress for the weather! January in Washington, DC can be very cold. Temperatures are expected to be in the low 30s. Be sure to wear layers, a hat, scarf and gloves. DC weather is variable so be prepared for a cold and damp day. Umbrellas will not be allowed due to security concerns.
This is a very busy two weeks in and around the Washington DC area. Be careful, have fun and enjoy yourself and all the festivities!
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