Inauguration Day 2025: A Deep Dive into Traditions, Costs, and Customs
Inaugural parade honoring President Barack Obama’s second Inauguration on Monday January 21, 2013 down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, DC (Carla Cioffi/NASA).
Trump’s Second Inauguration Day Schedule and What You Need to Know
Article by Victoria Newsome, Senior Transition Correspondent
WASHINGTON - Inauguration Day held every four years on January 20th, is a key moment in American democracy, marking the peaceful transfer of power from one president to the next. For President-elect Donald Trump and his running mate Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, the 2025 inauguration will take place on January 20, ushering in the beginning of their term. This day features ceremonies full of symbolism, including the presidential oath of office, military parades, and various formal celebrations throughout Washington, D.C. This article delves into the specifics of the event, the customs surrounding it, and the broader traditions associated with Inauguration Day.
What Happens on Inauguration Day?
Inauguration Day is defined by a series of rituals that reflect the significance of the peaceful transition of power. The most prominent feature of the day is the official oath of office taken by the president, as outlined in Article II of the U.S. Constitution. Upon taking the oath, President Trump will officially assume office at noon EST on January 20, which is the moment dictated by the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. If should the inauguration fell on a Sunday, the ceremony would be rescheduled to the following Monday.
Following the swearing-in ceremony, the new president customarily delivers an inaugural address. This speech is an essential component of the inauguration, providing the president the chance to define their vision for the future. Immediately following the address, military parades serve to mark the day, featuring diverse elements such as marching bands, military units, and even ceremonial performances. These symbolic gestures emphasize the role the armed forces and national unity play during such pivotal moments.
Inaugural Customs: The Importance of Symbolism
The theme of the 2025 inauguration is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise”. This theme is intended to honor the Founding Fathers’ vision of the U.S. government, emphasizing the nation's resilience and stability throughout its history. By holding the inauguration in a public space, such as the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, the event becomes an act of civic participation and continuity, aligning with the values of democracy embodied in the U.S. Constitution. Inauguration Day often brings various celebratory moments, including inaugural balls that offer high-profile social gatherings to mark the occasion. While these events are sometimes seen as mere festivities, they carry deep historical significance, highlighting the transition to the new administration and offering the American people a chance to engage in the democratic process.
What Does Inauguration Day Cost?
Inaugural celebrations are rarely inexpensive. For Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, his fundraising efforts have shattered previous records. According to reports, his inaugural committee had already raised more than $170 million by early December 2024. These funds are expected to reach $200 million by the time the event takes place. These private donations will cover the costs of the various activities associated with the inauguration, from the oath of office ceremony to the inauguration’s social gatherings.
To put this in perspective, President Joe Biden's 2021 inauguration raised just $62 million, and Trump’s 2017 inauguration raised $107 million. These figures suggest a growing reliance on private funding for presidential inaugurations, signaling a shift in how modern inaugurations are financed. Notably, leftover funds from these events have historically been allocated toward projects such as a presidential library.
Flags at Half-Staff: Honoring President Jimmy Carter
Another notable aspect of the 2025 inauguration is that flags will be flown at half-staff to honor the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away shortly before the event. As required by the U.S. Flag Code, flags are lowered when former presidents, vice presidents, members of Congress, and other prominent national figures die. This display of respect will be observed during President Trump's swearing-in ceremony.
Why Is Trump’s Oath So Important?
On the morning of January 20, 2025, President Trump will take an oath of office slightly distinct from that of Vice President Vance. The president’s oath reads:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) 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”.
This oath represents the moment when the president transitions from the position of candidate to the leader of the nation, upholding the values outlined in the Constitution and ensuring the security, liberty, and welfare of the American people. At this moment, the continuity of the U.S. government is affirmed.
Conclusion: The Power of Inauguration Day
Inauguration Day remains one of the most powerful rituals of democracy. As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his 2025 inauguration, the ceremonial aspects of this event continue to symbolize both the power and stability of U.S. governance. Through traditional acts such as the swearing-in ceremony, military parades, and social events, Inauguration Day encapsulates the heart of American ideals. However, it is also a reminder of the significant costs associated with such national events, drawing upon extensive public and private fundraising to make them a reality. As history continues to unfold, Inauguration Day serves as both a solemn and festive moment that marks a new era in leadership.
2025 Inauguration Schedule:
Saturday, January 18, 2025
President's Reception & Fireworks Display at Trump National Golf Club (Virginia)
Evening event featuring a celebratory atmosphere with guests from various sectors and a fireworks display.
Cabinet Reception & Vice President’s Dinner
A formal gathering to celebrate the new administration, where members of the incoming Cabinet will mingle with guests and political allies.
Sunday, January 19, 2025
Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery
A solemn tribute to military service members, symbolizing respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
MAGA "Victory Rally" at Capital One Arena (Washington, D.C.)
A public rally for Trump supporters, celebrating the upcoming administration and engaging the public in political enthusiasm.
Candlelight Dinner
A formal, intimate event to gather political leaders and key supporters for an elegant evening.
Monday, January 20, 2025 – Inauguration Day
Service at St. John’s Church (Morning)
An early traditional service was attended by President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect Vance, who reflected on the gravity of the upcoming day.
Tea at the White House (Late Morning)
A private gathering for the outgoing president and his administration, transitioning power formally.
Inauguration Ceremony (12:00 PM – Noon)
Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will take his oath of office, marking his role as the nation’s 49th vice president.
President-elect Donald Trump will follow and take the oath of office at the U.S. Capitol, officially beginning his first term as the 47th president.
Farewell for President Joe Biden & Vice President Kamala Harris (After Oaths)
A final farewell for the outgoing administration, with formal ceremonies concluding their service.
Signing of Nominations (Post-Ceremony)
Trump heads to the President’s Room near the Senate Chamber, where he will begin signing initial nominations to his administration.
Inaugural Luncheon Hosted by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (1:00 PM)
A highly anticipated gathering for officials, dignitaries, and political figures. This lunch will feature speeches and discussions of the incoming administration.
Presidential Parade (2:00 PM)
The presidential parade will begin at the U.S. Capitol and moving down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. President Trump will reviewing the troops and give various performances.
Oval Office Signing Ceremony (Late Afternoon)
Following the parade, Trump will take part in an important Oval Office signing ceremony to begin formal administration operations.
Inaugural Balls (Evening)
President Trump will attend the following inaugural balls:
Commander in Chief Ball
Liberty Inaugural Ball
Starlight Ball
Trump is expected to speak at all three events, offering a celebratory tone for the new administration.
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
National Prayer Service (Morning)
A final ceremonial service held in the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., marking the close of the inaugural events and setting the tone for the new administration.