Inauguration Day Facts For Kids
The United States of America inaugurates a new president every four years during a grand ceremony in the country’s capital, Washington D.C. This special day is called the “Inauguration Day,” and it marks the beginning of a new term for the president-elect. Here are some fun facts about Inauguration Day that every kid should know.
1. Inauguration Day is January 20th
The U.S Constitution mandates that the president’s term begins on January 20th at noon. Therefore, every Inauguration Day takes place on that date unless January 20th falls on a Sunday. In that case, the ceremony takes place the next day.
2. The Oath of Office
During the Inauguration Ceremony, the president-elect takes the Oath of Office, which is this: “I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
3. The length of the inaugural address
In 1841, William Henry Harrison delivered the longest inauguration speech ever, which lasted for almost two hours. However, since 1937, tradition has limited the speeches to 20 minutes or less.
4. The “First Lady’s Luncheon”
The “First Lady’s Luncheon” is a tradition that was started in 1912. It occurs immediately after the Inaugural ceremony and is held in the Capitol Building’s Statuary Hall. All the women in the new president’s family, as well as the former First Ladies, attend this event.
5. Parade and Ball
After the ceremony, there is an official parade along Pennsylvania Avenue that features different groups and bands, including performers from all 50 states. The parade ends at the White House, where the president and his family watch it from the viewing stand. Later that evening is the Inaugural Ball, where the newly sworn-in president and First Lady dance with one another.
6. Security
As important as Inauguration Day is, it requires heavy security. It is one of the most heavily guarded events in Washington, D.C., with thousands of law enforcement officials from various agencies working to ensure the safety of all attendees.
Conclusion
The Inauguration Day is a special day in the United States, where the country welcomes its new president. It takes place every four years, and even though the traditions have evolved and changed over time, one thing remains the same: it is a day of celebration and a symbol of democracy for the country.