Early in the afternoon of January 20, Donald Trump will become the 45th president of the United States after taking the oath of office at the Capitol, in what will be the country’s 58th inauguration ceremony.
The president-elect’s Inaugural Committee has released a schedule of official events for three days of celebrations, but some of the details have not yet been made public. The weekend, according to the Trump team, kicks off on January 19.
Thursday, January 19
Wreath-Laying Ceremony
Where: Arlington National Cemetery
When: 3:30—4 p.m.
Details: Trump and Vice President-elect Mike Pence will honor the country’s veterans at the U.S. military cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
Make American Great Again! Welcome Celebration
Where: Lincoln Memorial
When: 4—6 p.m.
Details: The inaugural events officially start with this event, which will include a concert and appearances by Trump and Pence, along with performers Toby Keith, Jennifer Holliday, The Piano Guys, Lee Greenwood, RaviDrums, 3 Doors Down and The Frontmen of Country. A ticket is required for special viewing areas.
Friday, January 20
Inaugural Swearing-In Ceremony
Where: West Front of the U.S. Capitol Building
When: Ceremony begins at 9:30 a.m.; opening remarks at 11:30 a.m.; swearing in at noon by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts Jr.
Details: The Trump and Pence families will join them, as will members of Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, diplomatic corps and other invited guests. A ticket is not required for general admission.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and America’s Got Talent alumna Jackie Evancho have accepted invitations to perform at Trump’s swearing-in ceremony. Breaking with a tradition that has stretched back 11 presidents, Trump has replaced the inauguration announcer, instead tapping Steve Ray, a Washington-based announcer who has worked with MLB’s Washington Nationals.
Hillary Clinton, who lost to Trump, will attend the inauguration with her husband, former President Bill Clinton. Former President George W. Bush and former first lady Laura Bush, as well as former President Jimmy Carter, also will be there. Former presidents typically attend the ceremonial transfer of power. But Bush’s father, former President George H.W. Bush, won’t be in attendance because of his health.
Inaugural Parade
Where: Starts at the steps of the Capitol Building and proceeds along Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House.
When: 3—5 p.m.
Details: Trump, Pence and their families will be escorted down Pennsylvania Avenue, followed by parade participants. A ticket is required for special viewing areas.
Thirty-four local and six national groups will participate, according to Roll Call. Despite protests by some alumni, Talladega College is sending its marching band for the parade. (The historically black school is located in Alabama.) The New York-based Rockettes also are slated to perform.
Many streets will be closed along the parade route and around the National Mall. D.C. officials have created a website and Twitter account to help residents prepare for the event. Social media users can ask questions with the hashtag #Inaug2017.
View the route here.
Inaugural Balls
Where: Walter E. Washington Convention Center and National Building Museum
When: 7—11 p.m.
Details: At least three official inaugural balls are planned, and they will feature dancing, entertainment and appearances by Trump and his wife, Melania. The two main balls will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, and the Salute to Our Armed Services Ball will be at the National Building Museum, according to The Washington Post. There also will be several unofficial balls on this night. Landmarks and themes from New York, Trump’s hometown, will dominate the “Big Apple Ball,” the New York Daily News says. A ticket is required.
Saturday, January 21
National Prayer Service
Where: Washington National Cathedral
When: 10—11 a.m.
Details: This will be an interfaith prayer service.
Reference: Newsweek
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