20 Times the Weather Made Inauguration Day Unforgettable
The weather turns presidential inaugurations into unforgettable moments, bringing challenges and surprises that make history.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
The weather has a knack for stealing the show during presidential inaugurations. Snowstorms, rain, and even cold have created unforgettable moments in history. Some ceremonies turned chaotic, while others embraced the unexpected, adding a unique twist to the day. These 20 inaugurations remind us how unpredictable nature can leave its mark on monumental events.
1. Snowstorm at Kennedy’s Inauguration (1961)
USCapitol on Wikimedia Commons
John F. Kennedy’s inauguration faced a significant snowstorm, dropping eight inches of snow the night before. Despite the cold, crowds showed up in full force, inspired by his famous “ask not” speech.
2. Reagan’s Second Inauguration Moved Indoors (1985)
Pete Souza on Wikimedia Commons
The extreme cold forced Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration indoors for the first time since 1909. Temperatures dropped to -2°F, making outdoor festivities impossible.
3. William H. Harrison’s Freezing Day (1841)
Charles Fenderich. Scanned by the Library of Congress. on Wikimedia Commons
Harrison delivered the most extended inaugural address without a coat or hat in freezing temperatures. The exposure led to pneumonia, and he passed away a month later.
4. Sunny Skies for Obama (2009)
Bart Stupak on Wikimedia Commons
Obama’s first inauguration felt like a celebration under clear blue skies and mild temperatures. The perfect weather matched the hopeful energy of the day as millions gathered to witness history. It was a picture-perfect start to a presidency focused on change.
5. Lincoln’s Stormy Second Inauguration (1865)
Alexander Gardner on Wikimedia Commons
Heavy rain soaked Abraham Lincoln’s second Inauguration, leaving attendees wading through muddy conditions. The downpour didn’t dampen the significance of his address, which called for healing a nation divided by war. Just as he began speaking, the sun broke through, offering a glimmer of hope.
6. Rain Soaks Nixon’s First Inauguration (1969)
White House Photo Office Collection on Wikimedia Commons
Persistent rain drenched the spectators at Richard Nixon’s first inauguration, turning the event into a soggy spectacle. Umbrellas dotted the crowd, and the wet weather added an air of solemnity. Despite the rain, Nixon’s speech focused on unity and the country’s future.
7. Roosevelt’s Fourth Swearing-In Under Clouds (1945)
Abbie Rowe on Wikimedia Commons
Overcast skies and wartime austerity set a serious tone for Franklin D. Roosevelt’s final inauguration. The ceremony was stripped of grandeur, reflecting the gravity of the times. His leadership during a pivotal historical moment shone through even under cloudy skies.
8. Blizzard Delays Truman’s Inauguration Preparations (1949)
Abbie Rowe on Wikimedia Commons
A fierce blizzard swept through Washington, D.C., right before Harry Truman’s inauguration. Workers scrambled to clear snow and ensure the ceremony went smoothly. Their efforts paid off as the event showed resilience in facing challenges.
9. Foggy Start for Carter’s Inauguration (1977)
Unknown author or not provided on Wikimedia Commons
Thick fog created an ethereal backdrop for Jimmy Carter’s swearing-in ceremony. The weather added an almost cinematic quality as Carter chose to walk the parade route. It symbolized his commitment to being close to the people, even in less-than-perfect conditions.
10. Storm Threatens Clinton’s Ceremony (1993)
White House Television on Wikimedia Commons
Bill Clinton’s first inauguration was overshadowed by the threat of a storm looming overhead. Rain held off just long enough for him to deliver his speech and celebrate the moment. The weather, though unpredictable, couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the day.
11. Eisenhower Faces Snow and Slush (1957)
Old Guard Museum on Wikimedia Commons
Dwight D. Eisenhower’s second inauguration was met with a wintery mix of snow and slush. The streets were treacherous, making it challenging for spectators to attend. Despite the icy conditions, his calm demeanor reflected the resilience of his leadership.
12. Sunny Optimism for Reagan’s First Inauguration (1981)
White House Photographic Collection on Wikimedia Commons
Ronald Reagan’s first inauguration took place under clear, sunny skies, a perfect metaphor for his message of optimism. The warm weather energized the crowd as he delivered his vision for a brighter America, setting the tone for the following celebration.
13. Taft’s Soggy Day (1909)
USCapitol on Wikimedia Commons
Heavy rain soaked attendees and delayed the parade at William Howard Taft’s inauguration. However, the downpour didn’t stop Taft from taking his oath; he even joked about the wet conditions. His good humor lightened the otherwise dreary day.
14. Washington’s Chilly Beginning (1789)
Ramon de Elorriaga on Wikimedia Commons
George Washington’s first inauguration was marked by brisk April weather in New York City. The chill in the air didn’t deter onlookers eager to witness history. It was a humble start to what would become a grand American tradition.
15. Clinton’s Icy Second Term Start (1997)
USCapitol on Wikimedia Commons
At Bill Clinton’s second inauguration, icy temperatures left crowds bundled up against the cold. The weather added an extra layer of determination to the day as he outlined his plans for the future. It reminded everyone that big or small challenges are part of progress.
16. Rain Clears for Harding (1921)
Harris & Ewing, photographer on Wikimedia Commons
Warren G. Harding’s inauguration started under gloomy, rainy skies. By the time he began his speech, the clouds parted, offering a bright ending to the ceremony. It was seen as a good omen for his presidency.
17. Hayes and the Unexpected Spring Snow (1877)
Matthew Brady on Wikimedia Commons
Rutherford B. Hayes’s inauguration coincided with a surprising spring snowfall that blanketed Washington. The unexpected weather added a unique charm to the event, making it one of the rare snow-covered inaugurations.
18. Cold Winds Challenge Cleveland (1893)
Photograph on Wikimedia Commons
Grover Cleveland’s second inauguration was met by freezing winds that tested the endurance of attendees. Despite the discomfort, Cleveland delivered a powerful speech on reform and responsibility. The crowd’s determination to witness history mirrored his message.
19. Sunlit Day for Bush’s First Inauguration (2001)
White House Photo by Eric Draper on Wikimedia Commons
Bright, sunny skies and mild temperatures graced George W. Bush’s first inauguration. The beautiful weather perfectly complemented the hopeful tone of his address. It became a symbol of a fresh start for the new millennium.
20. Jefferson’s Frosty Morning (1801)
Jean Leon Gerome Ferris on Wikimedia Commons
Thomas Jefferson’s first inauguration began on a frosty morning in March. The chilly air didn’t dampen the day’s excitement, as it marked the first peaceful transfer of power in the U.S. His quiet walk to the ceremony underscored the simplicity and significance of the moment.