In less than a week, President-elect Donald Trump will return to the White House to begin his second non-consecutive term. Inauguration Day is set for Monday, Jan. 20, with ceremonies beginning around noon EST on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Trump previously served as president from 2017 to 2021 after winning the 2016 election. He lost his re-election bid in 2020 to President Joe Biden. Now, Trump becomes only the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland.
While many Americans will have the day off on Jan. 20, it’s not directly due to the inauguration. Here’s a closer look at this historic day, its significance, and why some Americans will get a break.
The tradition of inauguration day
What Is Inauguration Day?
Inauguration Day marks the official swearing-in of the president-elect and vice president-elect, signifying the beginning of their terms. According to USA.gov, the event occurs every four years on Jan. 20, unless the date falls on a Sunday, in which case it is held on Jan. 21.
The ceremony takes place outside the U.S. Capitol, with inaugural traditions dating back to George Washington. However, the date wasn’t always set in January. Before the ratification of the 20th Amendment in 1933, inaugurations traditionally occurred on March 4.
The choice of March 4 was rooted in logistical challenges of the 18th and 19th centuries, as it allowed ample time for election results to be gathered and confirmed. This tradition was initiated when the Continental Congress resolved on Sept. 12, 1788, that “the first Wednesday in March next be the time…for commencing proceedings under the said constitution.” Interestingly, the first Wednesday in March 1789 happened to be March 4.
George Washington’s first inauguration, however, was delayed until late April 1789. Shortly thereafter, Congress officially set March 4 as Inauguration Day.
Why was the date moved to january?
As technology and communication methods advanced, the need for a four-month transition period diminished. The prolonged gap between elections and inaugurations left the country without clear leadership, which could pose risks in critical moments. To address this, the 20th Amendment moved Inauguration Day to Jan. 20, significantly reducing the waiting period between election results and the transfer of power.
This change has remained in effect, marking a smoother and more efficient transition process for presidential administrations.
Federal holiday status and MLK day overlap
Is Inauguration Day a Federal Holiday?
Inauguration Day is a federal holiday holiday, but only for some Americans. Those living in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area observe it as an additional federal holiday. However, for the rest of the country, it is not recognized as a day off.
This year, most Americans will have Jan. 20 off because Inauguration Day coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is a federal holiday observed nationwide. MLK Day, held annually on the third Monday of January, honors the legacy of the civil rights leader.
A Quick Look at U.S. Federal Holidays
The United States recognizes 11 official federal holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day – Jan. 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Third Monday in January
- Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) – Third Monday in February
- Memorial Day – Last Monday in May
- Juneteenth National Independence Day – June 19
- Independence Day – July 4
- Labor Day – First Monday in September
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day – Second Monday in October
- Veterans Day – Nov. 11
- Thanksgiving Day – Fourth Thursday in November
- Christmas Day – Dec. 25
The addition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983 marked a significant moment in recognizing the contributions of civil rights leaders and movements.
As Inauguration Day approaches, preparations are underway across Washington, D.C., and heightened security measures are expected, particularly near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida. The day promises to be a historic moment in U.S. politics, as Trump takes office for his second non-consecutive term.
Closing thoughts
Inauguration Day holds a special place in American tradition, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power and the resilience of democracy. While it may not be a federal holiday for all, its overlap with Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year gives many Americans a unique opportunity to reflect on both the nation’s leadership and its ongoing journey toward equality and justice.
