WASHINGTON, D.C. — Donald Trump, the 47th president-elect of the United States, is set to officially take office on Monday, January 20, 2025, marking the beginning of his second term. Trump’s inauguration, traditionally held outside on the Capitol’s west steps, will move indoors this year due to historically low temperatures predicted for Inauguration Day.
Here’s everything you need to know about when Trump takes office, Trump’s inauguration time, and how to watch the events.
When Does Trump Take Office?
The date of the presidential inauguration is fixed under the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, requiring the president-elect to take office on January 20 at noon EST, unless the date falls on a Sunday. For 2025, that means Donald Trump will officially become president when he takes the oath of office at noon on Monday.
This year’s ceremony will take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, a decision influenced by the extreme cold weather. Trump cited safety concerns for attendees, stating, “With the windchill, temperatures could reach dangerous lows. I don’t want anyone hurt or exposed to unnecessary risk, so we’re moving the event indoors, similar to President Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985.”
Inauguration Day Schedule
- Swearing-In Ceremony: Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will take the oath of office at noon EST.
- Performances: Country music superstar Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful,” followed by classical vocalist Christopher Macchio’s rendition of the National Anthem.
- Inaugural Address: President Trump will deliver his inaugural speech after taking the oath.
- Evening Events: Celebrations include the Inaugural Balls and a spectacular fireworks display near the Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, VA.
How to Watch Trump’s Inauguration
The event will be streamed live on the White House’s official website and broadcast by major networks, including ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC, and PBS. Attendance is free, but tickets are limited and available through local congressional offices.
What Day Does Trump Take Office?
Trump’s return to the presidency has been a focal point of political discussions, sparking significant interest in when Trump gets in office and the time of the inauguration. His supporters view the event as a fresh chapter in Trump’s legacy, while critics continue to monitor the implications of his policies and leadership.
Historical and Cultural Highlights
Inauguration Day has long been a symbol of the peaceful transfer of power in the U.S. However, as Trump’s second term begins, it also serves as a reflection of his enduring influence. The president-elect’s iconic branding is evident even in his inauguration details, from Trump-branded watches given to VIP attendees to a curated performance lineup featuring right-wing-aligned artists.
Fireworks, a hallmark of Trump’s celebrations, will cap off the evening’s festivities, lighting up the sky above Trump National Golf Club.
As Trump takes office in 2025, he faces both opportunities and challenges. Economic policies, international relations, and domestic priorities will shape his tenure, as will his ability to connect with a deeply divided nation.
For supporters eagerly asking, “When does Trump go into office?”, the answer is clear: Monday, January 20, 2025, at noon. The inauguration of President Donald Trump is poised to be one of the most closely watched moments in modern political history.