How to Watch Donald Trump's Inauguration 2025: Donald Trump Returns as 47th President of the United States

On this historic day, Washington, D.C., plays host to the 2025 presidential inauguration, marking Donald Trump’s return as the 47th president of the United States. After securing victory in the November elections, Trump, who previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021, takes the oath of office amidst pageantry, tradition, and unprecedented adjustments due to harsh winter weather.

A Day of Trump's Inauguration Ceremonial Significance

The inauguration day began early for Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, starting with a morning service at the historic St. John’s Episcopal Church in Lafayette Square. Known as the “Church of the Presidents,” this yellow-hued sanctuary has hosted similar inaugural prayers for nearly a century. Joined by family members and close advisors, Trump sought blessings for his upcoming term.

Following the service, the president-elect and his wife, Melania Trump, attended a customary tea meeting at the White House with outgoing President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. This symbolic gesture underscores the peaceful transfer of power that lies at the heart of American democracy, even amidst deeply polarized times.

The Swearing-In Ceremony

At precisely 11:47 a.m. EST (16:47 GMT), Trump and Vance took their oaths of office inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. This marks only the second time in modern history that an indoor inauguration has been held, the first being Ronald Reagan’s second-term swearing-in in 1985 due to frigid temperatures.

The decision to move the ceremony indoors was announced late last week, prompted by forecasts of freezing winds and temperatures as low as 24°F (-4°C). Trump emphasized the importance of comfort for attendees, stating, “This will be a beautiful experience for everyone, especially for the large TV audience!”

During the ceremony, Trump placed his hand on a family Bible, a tradition dating back centuries, and recited the presidential oath administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. Vance followed suit, swearing in as vice president, solidifying their administration’s official beginning.

The Inaugural Address

In his inaugural address, Trump set the tone for his new term by calling for a “revolution of common sense,” as previewed in advance excerpts. He outlined a vision centered on restoring American prosperity, bolstering national security, and reuniting a nation divided by years of political strife. The address struck a balance between celebratory optimism and resolute determination to tackle the challenges ahead.

Adjustments and Attendance

The ceremony’s relocation to the Rotunda, which is smaller than the traditional West Front platform, significantly limited in-person attendance. Typically, the outdoor platform can accommodate over 1,600 individuals, whereas the Rotunda holds approximately 750.

Despite these constraints, the event was attended by prominent political figures, international leaders, and business magnates. Alongside Trump and Vance’s families, outgoing President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were present, along with their spouses. Former presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, accompanied by their wives, added to the day’s gravitas. However, notable absences included former First Lady Michelle Obama, who opted to remain in Hawaii, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Global dignitaries also graced the occasion, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, and China’s Vice President Han Zheng. Tech industry leaders such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew were also spotted among the attendees, highlighting the event’s wide-reaching significance.

How to Watch Trump's Inauguration 2025?

For those unable to attend in person, numerous options were available to follow the proceedings live. The White House livestreamed the event, and major networks such as NBC, CBS, and ABC provided extensive coverage. International audiences could tune in via platforms like BBC One and the BBC World Service. Online streaming options included YouTube, C-SPAN.org, and the official inaugural committee’s website.

The Parade and Evening Festivities

Traditionally, the inaugural parade is a grand spectacle, with participants marching down Pennsylvania Avenue toward the White House. However, due to the extreme weather, this year’s parade was reimagined as an indoor event at the Capital One Arena. Trump and Vance greeted thousands of supporters who had gathered to witness this unique adaptation.

The day concluded with three inaugural balls: the Commander-in-Chief Ball, the Liberty Inaugural Ball, and the Starlight Ball. These glamorous events featured performances from an eclectic mix of artists, including country stars Carrie Underwood, Lee Greenwood, and Rascal Flatts. Opera singer Christopher Macchio and disco icons The Village People also took the stage, along with surprise appearances by Kid Rock and Nelly.

Reflecting on his participation, Underwood stated, “I love our country and am honored to sing at this historic event.” Similarly, The Village People emphasized that their music transcends politics, aiming to unite rather than divide.

A Busy First Day in Office

Trump’s return to power is set to be marked by swift and decisive action. Reports indicate that he plans to sign over 200 executive orders and directives within his first 24 hours. These measures will address a range of issues, from reversing policies implemented by the previous administration to introducing new initiatives aimed at fulfilling his campaign promises.

Executive orders, which do not require congressional approval, are a powerful tool for presidents to implement their agendas swiftly. Trump is expected to leverage this authority extensively in the coming weeks.

Trump’s second inauguration carries immense symbolic weight, representing both a political comeback and a renewed mandate to lead a deeply divided nation. While his critics remain vocal, his supporters view this day as a vindication of their belief in his leadership and vision for America.

As the day’s events unfold, the spotlight remains firmly on Trump and his administration. With bold promises and an ambitious agenda, the next four years promise to be as consequential as his first term.

For now, all eyes are on Washington, D.C., as the nation embarks on another chapter in its storied history, guided by a leader who has vowed to restore what he calls “American greatness.”