Key Details on Trump’s Inauguration Schedule

Donald J. Trump to Celebrate Second Inauguration with Nationwide Events

President-elect Donald J. Trump is set to host an array of events across the nation’s capital to celebrate his second presidential inauguration, inviting a diverse group of donors, supporters, and incoming administration members for a four-day extravaganza. The festivities will kick off on Saturday, January 18, and culminate on January 21 with a traditional National Prayer Service.

Saturday, January 18: Celebration at Trump National Golf Club

The inaugural celebrations will commence at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia, where Mr. Trump is expected to host a lavish party for around 500 guests at the club’s expansive clubhouse. The event promises to be a grand affair, featuring live musical performances and an impressive fireworks display that will light up the night sky.

The president-elect will arrive at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on his private plane, accompanied by his wife, Melania Trump, and several family members. Following their arrival, the family will make their way to the golf course, which boasts scenic views of the Potomac River.

In preparation for the festivities, aides have curated an extensive five-hour music playlist, which will be supplemented by music videos displayed on multiple televisions set up throughout the club’s three floors. Among the scheduled performers are Leo Days, an Elvis impersonator, and tenor Christopher Macchio, who has previously entertained at Trump’s political events. Officials have also confirmed that additional performances will take place throughout the night, ensuring an unforgettable evening for attendees.

Sunday, January 19: Honoring Service Members

On the following day, Sunday, January 19, Mr. Trump is anticipated to visit Arlington National Cemetery, marking his first visit in over a year. This visit follows a previous wreath-laying ceremony in 2022, where he paid tribute to the 13 U.S. service members who lost their lives in a suicide bombing during the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

During his last visit, an incident occurred involving a member of Trump’s staff, who reportedly pushed an Arlington official while attempting to film in a restricted area of the cemetery, raising concerns over political campaigning in such a solemn place. The visit is expected to be a moment of reflection and respect for the sacrifices made by U.S. service members.

Later in the day, Mr. Trump will host a major rally at Capital One Arena, a venue located just blocks from the National Mall. This marks a significant occasion, as it will be his first address to supporters in the capital since his speech at the Ellipse on January 6, 2021. Following the rally, the president-elect is slated to attend a candlelit dinner with supporters.

Monday, January 20: Inauguration Day

The highlight of the event series will arrive on Monday, January 20, when Mr. Trump is officially sworn in as the 47th president of the United States at noon Eastern Standard Time (EST). Traditionally, the inauguration ceremony takes place outdoors in front of the Capitol building, with a crowd of spectators witnessing the historic event. However, due to forecasts predicting extreme cold, Mr. Trump has decided to move the ceremony to the Capitol Rotunda.

To ensure his supporters can partake in the inaugurative festivities, Trump announced plans to use Capital One Arena as a venue for supporters to watch the ceremony live. He has also noted that, following his swearing-in, he plans to join them at the arena, adapting the schedule to accommodate the cold weather by replacing the traditional inaugural parade with a viewing party.

Following the inauguration ceremony, one of Mr. Trump’s first actions as president will involve a traditional signing of executive orders, marking the beginning of his administration. Although specifics regarding these executive orders remain undisclosed, Trump’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles, has indicated that he plans to reinstate several orders from his first term which President Biden had previously rescinded.

Evening Festivities: Inaugural Balls

In the evening, three official inaugural balls will take place: the Commander in Chief Ball, the Liberty Ball, and the Starlight Ball, all traditional components of the inaugural celebrations. Mr. Trump and Melania Trump will likely attend each ball, continuing a longstanding tradition of inaugural celebrations.

Tuesday, January 21: National Prayer Service

On Tuesday, January 21, the Washington National Cathedral will host Mr. Trump for an interfaith prayer service, led by the Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington. This event follows Budde’s previous criticism of Trump for his actions during the 2020 protests, adding a layer of complexity to the gathering.

The service will feature music provided by the Cathedral Choir, the Cathedral Contemporary Ensemble, and special guest musicians, promising a heartfelt conclusion to a series of jubilant inaugural festivities.

As Mr. Trump prepares for this significant moment in his political career, the forthcoming events signal a strong engagement with his supporters, combining both celebration and reflection as he embarks on his second term in office.