Donald J. Trump’s return to the presidency begins with a three-day inauguration spectacle that will cement his second term in office. From grand receptions to poignant moments of reflection, the ceremonies promise both pageantry and political weight as Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance officially take office on January 20, 2025. For the millions eager to follow the action, here’s a breakdown of events and how to tune in.
A Weekend of Celebration Leading to the Big Day
The inauguration festivities begin on Saturday, setting the stage with the President’s Reception, fireworks displays, and the Vice President’s Dinner. These events will welcome political elites and supporters alike, creating an atmosphere of excitement across Washington, D.C.
On Sunday, Trump will honor veterans with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Later, he will rally supporters at the Make America Great Again Victory Rally at Capital One Arena, featuring performances from Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and the Village People, among others. The evening concludes with Trump’s remarks at the Candlelight Dinner, adding an intimate touch to the weekend.
Inauguration Day: January 20, 2025
Monday’s schedule begins with a traditional church service at St. John’s and a morning tea at the White House. Unlike his previous inauguration, the swearing-in ceremony—originally planned for the Capitol steps—will take place indoors at Capital One Arena due to frigid weather conditions. The oath of office is scheduled for noon ET, followed by a Congressional Luncheon and a Signing Ceremony at the Oval Office.
While certain outdoor events, such as the Presidential Parade, remain in question, the evening will feature a trio of inaugural balls: the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Ball, and the Starlight Ball. Trump is expected to address attendees at each event.
How the Media Is Covering the Inauguration
The inauguration will dominate media coverage, with major networks offering extensive live broadcasts and analysis. Here’s how to watch:
- ABC News: Coverage begins Monday at 7 a.m. ET with a special edition of Good Morning America, followed by a full day of reporting led by David Muir. A primetime special at 10 p.m. will recap the day’s events.
- CBS News: Starting at 6 a.m. ET on its streaming platform, CBS offers live coverage anchored by Norah O’Donnell and special guests. Coverage continues into the evening with a primetime special.
- CNN: Anchors Jake Tapper and Anderson Cooper lead the coverage beginning at 7 a.m. ET. Evening programming will spotlight the inaugural balls, with live updates from the White House and parade route.
- C-SPAN: Known for its raw, unfiltered feeds, C-SPAN will stream every event uninterrupted starting at 7 a.m. ET.
- Fox News: Anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum guide the network’s coverage, which includes live reporting from the Liberty Inaugural Ball and other major events.
- PBS: Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett will co-anchor PBS’s live coverage, offering analysis from political experts and historians.
- Univision: Spanish-speaking audiences can tune into El Regreso de Donald Trump for live reporting and analysis tailored to the Hispanic community.
Most networks will stream coverage on their respective apps, websites, and platforms such as YouTube and Hulu, ensuring no moment is missed.
What’s at Stake
This inauguration marks not only Trump’s return but also a pivotal moment in U.S. politics. The events, steeped in tradition and spectacle, highlight key themes of Trump’s campaign: patriotism, economic revival, and a commitment to his base. With notable performances, high-profile appearances, and extensive media coverage, the 2025 inauguration serves as a rallying cry for supporters and a spectacle for the world.
