President-elect Donald Trump’s 2025 Inauguration: A Detailed Look at Events, Traditions, and Key Moments

From the swearing-in ceremony to inaugural balls, here’s everything you need to know about the 60th Presidential Inauguration.

Image of President-elect Donald Trump during his visit to Arlington National Cemetery.

Donald Trump will be officially sworn in as the 47th President of the United States during the 60th Presidential Inauguration on January 20, 2025. The historic event, themed “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise,” will feature ceremonies, performances, and tributes to American traditions. With significant changes due to frigid weather, this inauguration is set to stand out in history.

Inauguration Day is a cornerstone of American democracy, marking the peaceful transfer of power and the start of a new presidential term. This year’s ceremony coincides with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, making it a doubly significant occasion. As mandated by the 20th Amendment, the president and vice president take office at noon on January 20. This year, both Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will assume their roles during a series of formal events organized by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

1. Full Schedule of Events:

The Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee has announced a packed schedule:

• Saturday, January 18, 2025:

  • President’s Reception and Fireworks at Trump Sterling

  • Cabinet Reception and Vice President’s Dinner

• Sunday, January 19, 2025:

  • Arlington National Cemetery Ceremony: Wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

  • Make America Great Again Victory Rally: President Trump delivers remarks

  • Candlelight Dinner: Another address from President Trump

• Monday, January 20, 2025:

  • St. John’s Church Service

  • Tea at the White House

  • Swearing-In Ceremony: Held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to frigid weather (expected high of 20°F)

  • Farewell to Outgoing President Biden and Vice President Harris

  • President’s Signing Room Ceremony

  • JCCIC Congressional Luncheon

  • Review of the Troops

  • Presidential Parade: Moved indoors to the Capitol One Arena

  • Commander in Chief Ball, Liberty Inaugural Ball, and Starlight Ball: President Trump delivers remarks at each event

• Tuesday, January 21, 2025:

  • National Prayer Service

2. Changes Due to Weather:

Trump announced that, like Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985, this year’s ceremony will be held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to extreme cold. “I didn’t want to see people hurt or injured in any way,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Similarly, the traditional inaugural parade will take place at Capitol One Arena rather than Pennsylvania Avenue.

3. Key Highlights of the Ceremony:

• Musical Performances:
  Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful,” while the Armed Forces Chorus and U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club will join her. Opera singer Christopher Macchio will perform “Oh, America!” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The Village People will appear at two inaugural events, bringing their signature 1970s hits.

• Religious Reflections:
  Clergy from various faiths, including Archbishop Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Imam Husham Al-Husainy, Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, and Rev. Franklin Graham, will deliver invocations and benedictions, reflecting unity and diversity.

• Oaths of Office:

• Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the vice presidential oath to J.D. Vance.

• Chief Justice John Roberts will swear in President Trump, as per tradition.

• Theme:
  The theme, “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise,” highlights the continuity and stability of American governance. The Joint Congressional Committee stated: “The ceremonies symbolize our commitment to preserve liberty through a stable democracy.”
  
  

The 60th Presidential Inauguration marks the beginning of Trump’s second term, setting the tone for his administration’s goals. The inaugural address will likely outline key policy priorities while emphasizing unity and democratic values. Additionally, leftover funds from the inaugural committee will contribute to the future Trump Presidential Library, further cementing his legacy.

Donald Trump’s second inauguration will blend time-honored traditions with modern adaptations, reflecting the resilience of American democracy. From the swearing-in ceremony to the inaugural balls, the day promises to be both historic and memorable.

What are your thoughts on this year’s Inauguration Day changes? How do they compare to past ceremonies? Share your opinions below!