Donald Trump Inauguration Full Schedule, Date, Swearing-in Time: On Monday (January 20), Donald Trump will once again take the oath of office as the 47th President of the United States. Returning to the iconic steps of the US Capitol, where his first inauguration unfolded eight years prior, this moment marks a rare and significant chapter in American politics. For only the second time in US history, a president is reclaiming the White House after a non-consecutive term. Trump follows in the storied footsteps of Grover Cleveland, who achieved the same feat in 1893.
Here’s everything you need to know about the inauguration, from the schedule to the anticipated speeches, performances, and who will be in attendance.
When and where will the inauguration take place?
The US Constitution mandates that the presidential inauguration occurs on January 20 at 12:00 PM ET. Trump’s second swearing-in ceremony will occur on this date, with the added distinction of overlapping with Martin Luther King Jr. Day—marking only the third time in US history that this has happened. The event will unfold on the west front of the Capitol, where Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the 35-word oath of office. Trump will swear on a Bible before reciting the presidential oath, affirming his commitment to faithfully execute the duties of the office and protect the US Constitution.
What will Trump’s inaugural address include?
Once sworn in, Trump will deliver his inaugural address, a tradition that allows the president to outline his priorities for the coming term. Expect Trump to focus on key promises he has made during his campaign. These include a tough stance on immigration with plans to close the southern border and launch what he calls the largest deportation operation in US history. He has also pledged to pardon January 6th insurrectionists who are still facing trials or serving sentences.
Trump’s speech may also touch on his first-day executive orders, which reportedly aim to reverse many policies enacted by his predecessor, including environmental regulations, electrical vehicle mandates, and policies regarding transgender athletes. Another significant topic he’s addressed in speeches is his intent to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, though he has extended his timeline from a one-day resolution to about six months.
How to watch the inauguration globally?
For those unable to attend, the inauguration will be broadcast globally. In the United States, all major news networks will carry the event, with coverage starting as early as midnight ET on CNN, followed by other channels like CBS, PBS, and C-SPAN.
In the United Kingdom, BBC One will air the event starting at 3:30 PM GMT, with additional coverage on Sky News, ITV, and Channel 4. In Australia, expect live broadcasts from 2:30 AM AEDT on major networks including ABC, Seven, Nine, Ten, and SBS. For a global stream, C-SPAN’s YouTube channel and the White House website will offer coverage.
Weather forecast for the day
With temperatures predicted to be freezing, the ceremony will be held indoors in conditions likely to reach a high of 28°F (-2°C) and a low of 11°F (-11°C). While these cold temperatures may challenge attendees, the event will go on with festivities planned under partly sunny skies.
Who will be attending?
The 2025 inauguration will host a variety of notable figures from both the political and private sectors. The inaugural dais will likely feature high-profile business leaders, such as Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla and X), Mark Zuckerberg (CEO of Meta), Jeff Bezos (CEO of Amazon), and Shou Zi Chew (CEO of TikTok), as well as other influential figures in tech and industry. The inauguration will also bring together all living former US presidents, including Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, and George W Bush. However, several key figures, like Michelle Obama, have declined the invitation.
As for international dignitaries, Trump has invited several foreign leaders, such as Xi Jinping of China (the Vice President will attend on behalf of President Xi) , Nayib Bukele of El Salvador, Viktor Orbán of Hungary, and Javier Milei of Argentina. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has confirmed she will not attend the event.
Security will be tight, with an estimated quarter million ticketed guests and thousands of protesters expected to gather around the Capitol. A heavy security presence will include 25,000 law enforcement and military personnel, along with 7,800 National Guard troops and 4,000 officers from around the US
What’s the funding and corporate support behind the celebration?
The Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee has raised an extraordinary $170 million, with expectations to surpass $200 million—making it one of the largest inaugurations in U.S. history. Corporate contributions include donations of at least $1 million from Microsoft, Google, Ford, Toyota, General Motors, and Lockheed Martin. Companies like Pfizer, Robinhood, and Hims & Hers also made significant contributions to fund the inaugural events.
What entertainment can we expect?
Music will play a central role in the festivities, with country artist Carrie Underwood and Lee Greenwood performing at the swearing-in ceremony. Classical vocalist Christopher Macchio will sing the National Anthem. During the evening, celebrants can look forward to performances from stars like Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, and Gavin DeGraw. Billy Ray Cyrus and Kid Rock will perform at pre-inaugural rallies. Trump’s team has promised a surprise musical guest during the Liberty Ball, the event for his supporters.
What will Trump’s supporters do to celebrate?
In contrast to past inaugurations, Trump’s supporters will be celebrating at events outside the Capitol. On January 19, a MAGA rally will take place at the Capital One Arena, followed by a pre-inaugural reception co-hosted by Mark Zuckerberg and prominent billionaire backers. The festivities will continue on January 20 at Trump’s Virginia golf club, which will host a fireworks display and several informal parties. Officially, there will be three inaugural balls: the Commander-in-Chief Ball (for military personnel), the Liberty Ball (for Trump supporters), and the Starlight Ball (for high-dollar donors).
What’s the full inauguration schedule?
Here’s what the inaugural schedule will look like on January 20, 2025:
• Morning: A church service at St. John’s Church followed by a traditional tea with the Bidens at the White House.
• Noon: Trump’s swearing-in ceremony and inaugural address.
• Afternoon: Trump will attend a congressional luncheon and review the troops.
• Evening: Trump will attend three inaugural balls, including the Liberty Ball, the Commander-in-Chief Ball, and the Starlight Ball.
• Tuesday, January 21: The celebrations will conclude with a National Prayer Service.