How to watch Donald Trump’s inauguration: TV channels, streaming, and schedule

On Monday, January 20, 2025, President-elect Donald Trump will officially be sworn in as the 47th president of the United States, marking the beginning of his second term in office. The day will be filled with a series of traditional events, from the Swearing-In Ceremony to the highly anticipated Inaugural Balls, along with performances by prominent artists like Carrie Underwood and Lee Greenwood.

For those eager to witness this historic moment, here is a detailed guide on when and how to watch the inauguration events.

What Time Does the Inauguration Start?

The Swearing-In Ceremony, where Trump will take the presidential oath, is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST). Traditionally held outdoors on the west front of the U.S. Capitol, this year’s ceremony will instead take place indoors due to extreme weather conditions.

Ceremony Moved Indoors Due to Severe Cold

Typically, the inauguration takes place on an open platform with a view of the National Mall, but an unusually harsh Arctic blast has forced a change in venue. The weather forecast predicts record-low temperatures with dangerous wind chills.

In response, Donald Trump announced, "The safety and comfort of all participants and attendees are my top priorities. The ceremony will be held inside the Capitol Rotunda, similar to Ronald Reagan’s 1985 inauguration, which also faced severe cold weather."

This decision ensures the events can proceed smoothly without risking the health and safety of those involved.

How to Watch the Inauguration

There are numerous ways to watch the events of Inauguration Day. From live television coverage to streaming platforms, viewers will have plenty of options to follow along.

TrumpInsight Livestream

TrumpInsight, the official streaming platform, will broadcast the ceremony live. Audiences can access the stream through the TrumpInsight website.

CNN

CNN’s special coverage will start at 12:00 a.m. EST and run throughout the day, extending well into the night. The network’s coverage will be available on traditional TV, mobile apps, and its website. Additionally, subscribers to Max can watch the live stream on that platform.

NBC and MSNBC

NBC will kick off its Inauguration Day programming at 7:00 a.m. EST, with MSNBC starting even earlier at 5:00 a.m. EST. NBC News NOW will also provide a live stream, accessible through platforms such as Peacock, YouTube, Samsung TV Plus, and the NBC News app.

ABC News

ABC’s coverage begins with a special edition of "Good Morning America" at 7:00 a.m. EST, followed by continuous reporting starting at 9:00 a.m. EST. Viewers can watch via the ABC network or its 24/7 streaming channel, ABC News Live.

Fox News

Fox News coverage begins early at 4:00 a.m. EST and includes the "Inauguration of Donald Trump" special airing from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST. Evening programming will include live coverage of the Inaugural Balls.

CBS News

Although CBS has not yet released a detailed schedule, it is expected to provide extensive coverage throughout the day.

NewsNation

NewsNation’s Inauguration Day programming begins at 9:00 a.m. EST, with the swearing-in ceremony airing from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST.

Watching on Network Television

All major broadcast and cable news networks will provide extensive coverage of the inauguration, starting early in the morning. For example, CNN’s team, led by Jake Tapper, begins at 7:00 a.m. EST, while Fox News’ "Fox & Friends" starts at 6:00 a.m. EST.

Broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, and NBC will also offer special reports and live coverage. David Muir will lead ABC’s reporting starting at 9:00 a.m. EST, while Norah O’Donnell anchors CBS’s coverage from the same time. NBC’s team, including Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie, begins at 10:00 a.m. EST.

Executive Actions to Follow the Swearing-In

After taking the oath of office, President Trump is expected to head directly to the Oval Office to begin signing a series of executive orders. These initial actions are anticipated to address key issues such as immigration, economic policy, and government reform. Reporters will provide real-time updates and analysis as the new administration’s agenda unfolds.

Evening Festivities and Inaugural Balls

As the formal events of the day conclude, attention will shift to the evening’s celebratory Inaugural Balls. These gatherings, a longstanding tradition, will feature live performances and speeches.

Fox News Prime-Time Coverage

Fox News will have its prime-time anchors reporting live from the Inaugural Balls. Jesse Watters will broadcast from the Commander in Chief Ball at 8:00 p.m. EST, while Sean Hannity hosts live coverage from the Liberty Inaugural Ball at 9:00 p.m. EST. Greg Gutfeld’s show, "Gutfeld!," will air live from Washington’s DAR Constitution Hall at 10:00 p.m. EST.

CNN and Other Networks

CNN will continue its rolling coverage of the evening’s events, including reports from the various inaugural celebrations. Meanwhile, ABC and CBS will air hour-long specials at 10:00 p.m. EST before resuming regular programming.

Key Highlights to Anticipate

This inauguration marks a significant moment in American political history, as Donald Trump begins his second term. From his planned executive actions to the evening’s grand celebrations, the day promises to be filled with notable events and moments.

For those interested in the broader implications of Trump’s presidency, reports indicate a focus on stricter immigration policies and renewed efforts to reduce America’s international involvement. Additionally, Trump has signaled his intention to investigate and hold accountable his perceived adversaries, a stance that has raised concerns among critics.

Inauguration Day 2025 will undoubtedly be a defining moment in U.S. politics. Whether attending in person or watching from home, millions of Americans will tune in to witness the start of Donald Trump’s second term. With comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms, audiences will have unparalleled access to every detail of the day’s events. Donald Trump also launches his first official coin called $TRUMP. You can also check details about this coin on here.