Festive celebrations marked the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as president-elect. On Sunday, supporters of the president gathered in front of the Capitol in Washington, capturing moments of joy as preparations continued for the official ceremonies set to take place on Monday, January 20, 2025. The events will include religious traditions, cultural performances, and political milestones symbolizing the transition of power.

Monday: Inaugural Ceremonies Begin

Traditional Religious Service
The day will commence with Trump attending a service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, located near the White House in Lafayette Park. This long-standing tradition for presidents-elect offers a solemn moment of reflection before officially taking office.

Courtesy Meeting at the White House
President Trump and incoming First Lady Melania Trump will be welcomed at the White House by outgoing President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. This symbolic meeting, where tea will be served, represents respect and the peaceful transition of power.

Swearing-In Ceremony at the Capitol

Due to cold weather, the main inaugural event will take place inside the Capitol Rotunda, featuring a comprehensive program:

• Musical Prelude: Performances by the United States Marine Band and the Combined Choirs of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
• Invocations: Religious leaders, including Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Reverend Franklin Graham, will deliver prayers.
• Artistic Performances: Christopher Macchio will perform “Oh, America!” while Carrie Underwood, accompanied by the Armed Forces Choir, will present “America the Beautiful.”
• Oaths of Office: Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the oath to the vice president, and Chief Justice John Roberts will swear in President Trump.
• Inaugural Address: Trump will deliver his official address to the nation following the oath.
• Interfaith Blessings: Representatives of various faiths, including Rabbi Ari Berman and Imam Husham Al-Husainy, will offer prayers for the administration’s success.

Farewell to Biden and Harris
A formal ceremony will bid farewell to former President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, marking the end of their administration.

Post-Inauguration Events

Presidential Signing Ceremony
Trump will participate in a signing ceremony in the President’s Room adjacent to the Senate, where he will sign his first executive orders, nominations, and memoranda in the presence of members of Congress.

Inaugural Luncheon
The president and vice president will attend a luncheon hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall, celebrating the start of their terms.

Review of the Troops and Presidential Parade
Trump and the vice president will review the troops from the east steps of the Capitol. The traditional inaugural parade will then be moved to the Capitol One Arena due to weather conditions. The event will feature musical performances and remarks from the president.

Ceremony in the Oval Office
The president will return to the White House for an official ceremony marking his entry into the Oval Office.

Inaugural Balls

The evening will feature three official inaugural balls, each celebrating different aspects of the new administration:

1. Commander-in-Chief’s Ball: Dedicated to members of the armed forces, this event will feature performances by Rascal Flatts and Parker McCollum, along with a speech from the president.
2. Liberty Ball: This event for Trump supporters will include performances by Nelly, Jason Aldean, and The Village People.
3. Starlight Ball: Designed for major donors, this ball will feature an appearance by singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw and remarks from the president.

Tuesday: National Prayer Ceremony

The second day of celebrations will conclude with the traditional National Prayer Ceremony at the Washington National Cathedral. This event symbolizes unity and hope, marking the official beginning of the new administration.