GREENSBORO, N.C. — There are so many traditions on Inauguration Day, but only one is required by law, and that is saying the Oath of Office.
Taking the Oath with your hand on a book
According to the U.S. Department of State, in 1789 George Washington began the tradition of taking the oath with a hand on the Bible. Presidents can choose another book, for example, John Quincy Adams swore the Oath of Office with his hand on a law book.
When Donald Trump took the Oath of Office for the second time to become the 47th President, he had his hand on two books, a Bible given by his mom and also President Abraham Lincoln’s family Bible.
Trump also used the Lincoln Bible during his first inauguration in 2017.
When Inauguration Day takes place
Inauguration Day has been in January for as long as anyone watching can remember. A January Inauguration Day has been standard since 1933, when the 20th Amendment was passed. Before then, the day was set for March 4. The only other month it has been held was for the first inauguration. George Washington took the Oath of Office in April.
The Parade Procession
The parade procession had been a tradition for decades and decades, but President Carter’s inauguration in 1977 was the first time the President and the First Lady got out of the car and walked the parade route.
Ever since, presidents have walked part or all of the parade.
Inaugural balls & the tie to NC
The Inaugural ball or balls (there can be many) are not required by law. The balls were started by First Lady Dolley Madison in 1809 when James Madison was sworn in. Dolley was born in Guilford County. Sjhe is the only First Lady born in north Carolina.