What to Expect on Inauguration Day

Inauguration Day is not just a ceremonial formality – it’s a celebration filled with pageantry, music, and tradition. The day will include an array of events, kicking off with a service at St. John's Church located right by Lafayette Square, followed by a tea at the White House. This year, the Vice-President-elect, JD Vance, will also take the oath of office alongside Trump, marking a new chapter in their administration.

The main festivities begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. EST (14:30 GMT), where musical performances and formal remarks will set the tone for the day's proceedings on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The highlight of the day will be the swearing-in ceremony, where Trump will recite the oath of office, thereby solidifying his role as the leader of the nation. The presidential oath reads, "I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

After the oath, the President will deliver an inaugural address outlining his plans and aspirations for the next four years. Following this, Trump will sign essential documents in the President's Room, and participate in a congressional luncheon.

The day’s festivities will culminate with a grand parade, moving from the Capitol down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. As night falls, Trump will grace three inaugural balls—Commander-in-Chief Ball, Liberty Inaugural Ball, and the Starlight Ball—where he is anticipated to deliver speeches at each venue.

How to Watch the Inauguration

For those eager to witness this notable occasion, attending in person is a highly coveted opportunity, with tickets distributed to members of Congress for their constituents. However, if you miss out on getting tickets, there are numerous ways to catch the event from the comfort of your home. The White House will provide a live stream of the inauguration, and major news outlets like the BBC will also cover the event in real-time, complete with analysis and highlights.

Star-Studded Performances Await

Adding to the excitement, this year’s inauguration will feature prominent musical acts. Country music star and former "American Idol" winner, Carrie Underwood, is set to perform "America the Beautiful." Underwood expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration... We must all come together in the spirit of unity."

Additionally, the iconic disco group, The Village People, will perform at one of the inaugural balls. Despite some political disagreements, the group emphasized their commitment to music as a unifying force in their fans' lives. Country singer Lee Greenwood, a close friend of Trump, along with opera singer Christopher Macchio, will also grace the stage, ensuring a diverse and vibrant musical experience for attendees.

As anticipation builds for this momentous event, the American public looks forward to a ceremony that not only marks the transition of power but also aims to inspire hope and unity in a country facing challenges and divisions. Don’t miss out on this historic occasion!