For President Benjamin Harrison's inaugural ball in 1889, only the Marine Band provided entertainment. The Harrisons did not believe in drinking and dancing during their inaugural festivities, but felt it appropriate for the Marine Band to play a few marches. The U.S. Army Field Band from Fort Meade, Md., traditionally leads the parade past the presidential reviewing stand. Although the military has its tradition and highlights, other traditions are worth noting. For years, first ladies did not always have a visible role in the inauguration ceremony.
Most first ladies stand by their spouses as they take the presidential oath.
Some have held the Bible that their spouses use in taking the oath. The first president to use a vehicle during the inaugural parade was Warren Harding in 1921. Calvin Coolidge, in 1925, was the first president to have his inaugural address broadcast over radio. Officials estimated over 20 million people watched the first televised inaugural parade for Harry S. Truman, in 1949. The weather has been a factor in inaugurations.