HOW TO GET INTO THE INAUGURATION
By CaraG @exclusivelycarag
Credit: AFP via Getty Images
This year’s presidential election will go down in history, and you don’t want to miss the big day. The President and Vice President of the United States will swear into office during a ceremony on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. The event will take place on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
Planners are dealing with a logistical nightmare. The inauguration will definitely be smaller this year, but officials are uncertain whether the event will be virtual. Things like mandatory testing, spacing, and other COVID-19 procedures are still being discussed. An inauguration with public media coverage and virtual attendance isn’t far-fetched.
While it is still undetermined if there will be an issuance of inaugural tickets in 2021, officials are collecting requests. Tickets are FREE, but a completed application must be turned into your local representative or senator’s office. Many applications are online; search links are provided below for your convenience. You will find your local officials to see if any tickets are available or to have your name put on a waiting list.
• Senator search
• Representative search
Considering if the ceremony takes place in-person, it’s important to plan accordingly as roads will be closed throughout the city. Metro stations near festivities may also temporarily close that day. In the past, ride service apps such as Uber and Lyft place geofences around the secured area, so prepare for plenty of walking. There will be plenty of portable toilets for the event, but be sure to pack a bag with snacks and water.
Suppose you don’t get tickets to the official celebration. In that case, you can hang out on the sidewalks of Pennsylvania Avenue to enjoy a glimpse of the presidential procession and parade for free. Many people from all political backgrounds also gather at the National Mall, where the event will be on a big screen. Purchasing bleacher seats through the Presidential Inauguration Committee is also an option. After the Commander in Chief is sworn in, the inaugural parade will begin at approximately 3:00 PM EST at the U.S. Capitol and wrap up at the White House.
