Inside Inauguration Day 2025: Everything you need to know about Trump second presidency
On January 20, 2025, President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States in a ceremony moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to cold weather.
President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, marking his return to the White House for a second, non-consecutive term. The inauguration ceremony, traditionally held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, has been relocated indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to anticipated cold temperatures in Washington, D.C.
The day's events are organized by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, led by Senator Amy Klobuchar. The theme for this year's inauguration is "Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise," reflecting a commitment to the nation's democratic principles.
Trump's Inauguration Day Schedule
The inauguration ceremony is set to start at approximately 11:30 a.m. ET, with Trump taking the oath of office around noon. The proceedings will begin with a musical prelude by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Combined Choirs and "The President's Own" U.S. Marine Band. Senator Klobuchar will call the ceremony to order, followed by invocations from Timothy Cardinal Dolan and the Reverend Franklin Graham. Opera singer Christopher Macchio is slated to perform "Oh, America!"
Vice President-elect, JD Vance, will be sworn in by Supreme Court Justice, Brett Kavanaugh, after which country singer, Carrie Underwood, accompanied by the Armed Forces Chorus and the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club, will perform "America the Beautiful." Chief Justice, John Roberts, will then manage the presidential oath to Donald Trump. Following the swearing-in, President Trump will deliver his inaugural address.
Post-Ceremony Events
After the inauguration, the traditional inaugural luncheon will take place, featuring speeches and presentations. The day will continue with the "Pass in Review," where the President and Vice President inspect military troops before leading the inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. Public viewing areas along the parade route will be available for spectators.
In the evening, multiple inaugural balls are scheduled across Washington, D.C., with performances by artists such as Gavin DeGraw, Jason Aldean, Nelly, and Rascal Flatts. These events provide an opportunity for attendees to celebrate the inauguration with music and dancing.
The White House after the recent weather conditions in the US
Security and Attendance to Inauguration Day
Given the anticipated cold weather and recent security concerns, extensive measures are in place to ensure the safety of attendees. The decision to move the ceremony indoors underscores the commitment to a secure and comfortable environment for all participants.
Notable attendees include former presidents, dignitaries, and members of Congress. Outgoing President Joe Biden is expected to attend, honoring the tradition of a peaceful transfer of power. The event coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, adding historical significance to the proceedings.
Major TV networks, including ABC, CBS, and NBC, will broadcast the inauguration live. Additionally, the event will be streamed online via the White House website, allowing viewers worldwide to witness the ceremony.