Inauguration Day for Kids
Inauguration Day is the day the President of the United States gets sworn in for his/her new term. It is a historic and significant day in America’s democracy. Here are some important facts about Inauguration Day that your children would love to know.
1. It falls on January 20: The U.S. Constitution mandates that the President’s term ends on January 20th at noon.
2. Oath of Office: On Inauguration Day, the President-elect recites the Oath of Office, pledging to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.
3. Inauguration Ceremony: The Inauguration ceremony takes place on the steps of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. The President-elect takes the oath from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and then delivers an inaugural speech.
4. Parade: After the ceremony, there is a parade from the Capitol to the White House, which the new President and his/her family lead.
5. Ball: In the evening, there is an inaugural ball, and the President usually attends several different balls during the night.
6. History: The first Inauguration Day was in 1789 when George Washington became the first President of the United States.
7. Qualifications: To become the President of the United States, you must be a natural-born citizen and at least 35 years old.
8. Swearing-in: The President-elect has to say the entire oath correctly, or they cannot be sworn in as President.
9. Importance: Inauguration Day is important because it marks the peaceful transfer of power, which is a cornerstone of America’s democracy.
10. Obamas made history: On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama was inaugurated as the first African-American President of the United States.