Donald Trump is all set to return to the White House with his second inauguration as president of the United States. Inauguration day includes a formal swearing-in ceremony, musical performances, a celebratory parade, and a number of formal balls. Mr. Trump (78) will formally be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States. The official swearing-in ceremony will take place at 12 p.m. ET (1700 GMT) on January 20, 2025. President Trump will be administered the oath of office by Chief Justice John Roberts, marking the start of his second term.
Sub-freezing temperatures forecast for Monday (January 20, 2025) in Washington are prompting President-elect Donald Trump to take the oath of office from inside the Capitol Rotunda. Almost everyone visiting Washington won’t be able to see it in person. The decision to move Monday’s event indoors marks the first time in 40 years that a President will not be sworn in on the Capitol steps. Plans are underway to accommodate some attendees at the city’s pro basketball and hockey arena.
Also Read: Donald Trump inauguration moving indoors: Here’s what to know about changed plans
Here’s everything you need to know about the inauguration, including the schedule, where to watch, and key details.
Schedule for Trump Inauguration
Sunday, January 19:
- Wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
- MAGA “Victory Rally” at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.: On January 19, President Trump will hold a MAGA “Victory Rally” at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. This rally serves as a pre-inauguration event designed to energise supporters and reaffirm Trump’s commitment to the “America First” agenda.
- Candlelight Dinner following the rally.
Monday, January 20:
The inauguration day will unfold with a series of ceremonial events:
- Morning Worship Service: The day begins with the President-elect and his family attending a private prayer service near the White House at St. John’s Episcopal Church.
- Tea at the White House with President Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
- Arrival at the U.S. Capitol: Donald Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence will travel to the Capitol building for the swearing-in ceremony.
- Swearing-In Ceremony (12:00 p.m. EST): As the U.S. Constitution mandates, Trump will officially be sworn in at noon. Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the presidential oath of office.
- Inaugural Address: After the oath, Trump will deliver his inaugural address, which is expected to outline his vision for the nation over the next four years.
- Presidential Parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, with approximately 7,500 participants. Oval Office Signing Ceremony and remarks at the Commander in Chief Ball, Liberty Inaugural Ball, and Starlight Ball: The evening of January 20 will be filled with festivities as Trump attends several inaugural balls. He will deliver remarks at the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Inaugural Ball, and the Starlight Ball—gatherings that will showcase the glamour and importance of the occasion.
Also Read: Donald Trump to kick off his second term in White House: Here is a complete list of U.S. Presidents
Tuesday, January 21:
- National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral at 11 a.m., marking the official conclusion of the inauguration celebrations.
Where to watch
The swearing-in ceremony is a public event, and thousands of people are expected to gather on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to watch the ceremony unfold on large video screens. For those who cannot make it to Washington, the event will be broadcast live on major news channels like ABC, NBC, and CNN. Additionally, live streaming will be available on multiple platforms, ensuring global access to this event. Major news networks will provide live coverage, including Fox News and MSNBC, and international channels like BBC and Al Jazeera.
Who is funding Donald Trump’s inauguration?
A combination of private donations and public funds funds Donald Trump’s inauguration. The Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC) raises money from private donors, including corporations, wealthy individuals, and political supporters, to cover the costs of events such as the parade, inaugural balls, and entertainment. Notable donors include major corporations and business magnates, with reports indicating energy, finance, and real estate contributions.
Major corporate donors include the world’s five most prominent tech companies, each contributing at least $1m. Microsoft doubled its usual contribution to $1m, while Google tripled its traditional offering from $285,000 to $1m. The auto industry has shown strong support, with Toyota, Ford and General Motors donating $1m. Other major contributors include Pfizer, His & Hers, Intuit and Robinhood, which gave $2m. Lockheed Martin joined the million-dollar donor club, even as the committee hosts fewer events than previous inaugurations.
The National Weather Service is predicting the temperature to be around (minus) 6°C at noon during the swearing-in, the coldest since Reagan’s second inauguration saw temperatures plunge to (minus) 14°C. Barack Obama’s 2009 swearing-in was (minus) 2°C. Adding to the bite: Wind is forecast to be 48 to 56 kmph, sending wind chills into the single digits.
Published – January 18, 2025 02:27 pm IST
