How to Celebrate The Inauguration Safely
The inauguration of President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr. and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on Jan. 20 can be completely different from previous ceremonies. The Presidential Inaugural Committee is urging individuals to keep residence to hold massive crowds from probably spreading the coronavirus, and there’s heightened safety after a violent assault on the Capitol.
But there are nonetheless methods to take part with out grand, in-person festivities.
Ahead of the occasion on Wednesday, the committee is inviting individuals to add movies of themselves on its web site with hopeful messages, visions for the nation or notes on unity. Or, ship a selfie and it’s possible you’ll be a part of an augmented actuality expertise. Children can take part, too, by sending letters to Ms. Harris — who will make historical past as the primary lady and lady of colour to turn into vp — with questions, concepts, recommendation or anything they’d like to share.
On Jan. 19, be part of a nationwide tribute in honor of those that have died from Covid-19. A lighting ceremony can be held across the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool at 5:30 p.m. Eastern. Communities throughout the nation can take part by ringing church bells or illuminating buildings.
If you need to have a good time the inaugural with others on social media, obtain festive visuals from the committee’s web site, reminiscent of cowl photographs or Zoom backgrounds, and share posts with the hashtags #InaugurationDay or #Inauguration2021. (Find directions at bideninaugural.org.)
On Jan. 20, watch the swearing-in ceremony reside on the committee’s YouTube channel, on The New York Times website or on major networks, including CNN, ABC and CBS. The event will take place sometime before noon and will feature appearances by Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez. Afterward, Mr. Biden and Ms. Harris will participate in a traditional military review, meant to symbolize the peaceful transfer of power, and visit Arlington National Cemetery with three former presidents — a nod to the inauguration’s theme, “America United.” There are also plans for a televised virtual parade with performances from around the nation.
Then, starting at 8:30 p.m. Eastern, Tom Hanks will host a prime-time special featuring Bruce Springsteen, John Legend and other stars, as well as appearances by Mr. Biden and Ms. Harris. Watch it on ABC, CBS, CNN, NBC and MSNBC, or stream it on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter or Twitch.
