The highly anticipated inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump will take place on January 20, 2025, marking the start of his second, non-consecutive term. Scheduled for noon ET, the event will occur at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. The swearing-in ceremony will begin at 12 pm ET (11 am CT).
This inauguration is set to coincide with Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday, making the historic occasion even more significant. It will be the second time Inauguration Day falls on the same day as MLK Day, with the first instance happening during President Bill Clinton’s second inauguration in 1997.
Trump’s swearing-in ceremony will officially begin at noon, and shortly after, he will take the oath of office, making him the 47th president of the United States. This marks a remarkable comeback for the 77-year-old, who served as president from 2017 to 2021 and now returns to the White House after four years out of office.
The inauguration will also be a day of reflection on the country’s democratic system. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies has selected the theme, “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise,” recognising the Founding Fathers’ commitment to preserving the continuity of the United States’ government.
Following the swearing-in, Trump will join vice-president-elect, who will also take the oath of office. Then, the newly sworn-in president and vice president will participate in the inaugural parade, which will proceed down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. Once at the White House, the two will view the parade from a stage at the front lawn.
Weather concerns
Weather advisories have been issued, with the DC area expected to experience snow and freezing rain. Attendees are warned to prepare for potential delays and disruptions. As this is a national special security event, increased security measures will be in place, with collaboration between federal and local law enforcement.
Lawmakers are expected to gather for the certification process of the 2024 election results, which is a formal event but was disrupted four years ago when Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol. This year, Biden and the Democrats have committed to respecting the election results and ensuring a smooth transition of power.
A unique celebration
The inauguration is not just a political event; it will also be a celebration of democracy. Once Trump and Vice President-elect are sworn in, the public will see an inaugural address and the traditional pass in review.
Although the inauguration is a formal event, Trump’s personal victory rally will take place beforehand. Scheduled for January 19 at Capital One Arena in Washington, the rally is expected to attract a large crowd. With a capacity of 20,000, it’s set to build excitement for the big day.
Global presence
While the details of international attendance remain uncertain, key world leaders have been invited to attend the inauguration. Chinese President Xi Jinping and other international leaders have received invitations, though it’s unclear who will actually attend. One notable absence will be Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will not be present.
Limited tickets
For those wishing to attend the inauguration, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies makes a limited number of tickets available through members of Congress. These tickets, though free, are a prized opportunity to witness the historic event in person.
Flags at half-staff
Another noteworthy feature of the inauguration is the flag protocol. President Joe Biden has ordered US flags to be flown at half-staff in honour of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. Trump will be the first president to take office with the flags at half-staff.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House, the event will be streamed widely, allowing millions around the world to witness history. This victory marks not only the Republicans’ win over the Democrats and the defeat of presidential candidate Kamala Harris, but also brings hope for both parties working together to strengthen one of the world’s most powerful superpowers.
