Donald Trump’s Presidential inauguration as the 47th President of the United States will take place on January 20, 2025, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. The celebrations kick off with a fireworks show at Trump’s golf club in Virginia, followed by a rally in D.C., a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, and several dinners leading up to the swearing-in. Joe Biden is expected to attend, and the inaugural committee, chaired by Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, emphasized Trump’s
Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, marking his return to the White House for a non-consecutive second term. The inauguration will take place on the western steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday.
Inauguration Schedule and Events
The inaugural festivities are planned to reflect both tradition and the personal style of President Trump. The schedule includes:
January 19, 2025:
Victory Rally: An indoor event featuring performances by Kid Rock and Billy Ray Cyrus, held in Washington, D.C.
January 20, 2025:
Swearing-In Ceremony (12:00 p.m. ET): Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will take the oath of office first, followed by President-elect Donald Trump. The oaths will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts.
Inaugural Address: President Trump will deliver his speech outlining the vision for his upcoming term.
Signing Ceremony: Following the swearing-in, the President is scheduled to sign transitional documents in the President’s Room at the Capitol.
Inaugural Luncheon: A traditional luncheon with congressional leaders and invited guests in the National Statuary Hall.
Pass-in-Review: The President and Vice President will review military forces on the east steps of the Capitol.
Procession and Parade (3:00 p.m. ET): A procession along Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, followed by a parade featuring military and civilian units.
Inaugural Balls: Various official and unofficial inaugural balls will be held across Washington, D.C., celebrating the new administration.
Notable Attendees and Performers
The inauguration is expected to draw a diverse group of attendees:
Former Presidents: Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton are anticipated to attend, demonstrating a unified front of former leaders.
Performers:
Carrie Underwood: The country music star will perform “America the Beautiful” shortly before the swearing-in ceremony.
The Village People: Known for hits like “Y.M.C.A.,” they are scheduled to perform at pre-inauguration events.
Christopher Macchio: The opera singer is set to sing the National Anthem during the ceremony.
Lee Greenwood: He will perform “Proud to Be an American” as part of the celebrations.
Security Measures
Given the heightened security concerns stemming from past incidents, including the January 6 Capitol attack, extensive measures are in place:
Law Enforcement Presence: The Secret Service, FBI, and local law enforcement agencies are coordinating efforts to ensure safety.
National Guard Deployment: Approximately 8,000 National Guard troops will be stationed throughout the city to maintain order.
Road Closures and Checkpoints: Significant areas around the Capitol and along the parade route will be closed to traffic, with security checkpoints for attendees.
Public Participation and Viewing
Unlike the 2021 inauguration, which was limited due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this event will return to full capacity:
Attendance: The public is invited to attend, with tickets distributed by congressional offices.
Broadcast: Major news networks and online platforms will provide live coverage of the events, ensuring nationwide and international viewership.
Significance of the Day
The inauguration’s coincidence with Martin Luther King Jr. Day adds a layer of historical significance, merging the celebration of a civil rights icon with the democratic tradition of peaceful power transitions.
As the nation prepares for this pivotal event, the inaugural committee, chaired by Steve Witkoff and Kelly Loeffler, emphasizes themes of unity and forward momentum, aiming to set a tone of collaboration and progress for the upcoming term.
