When is Inauguration Day?

This year’s presidential inauguration in Washington D.C. is scheduled for January 20, 2025. 

On that day, Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. In addition, Vice President-elect JD Vance will be sworn into office on the West Lawn in front of the U.S. Capitol. 

Trump will have the distinction of serving two, non-consecutive terms in the Oval Office. Grover Cleveland was the only president before Trump to have left the White House and then returned for a second term four years later. 

Cleveland served his first term from 1885-1889 and again from 1893-1897. 

Inauguration Day occurs every four years on January 20. The day is moved to January 21 if the 20th falls on a Sunday. The proceedings get underway at around noon. 

According to a U.S. Government website, the inauguration ceremony is planned by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies. 

Inauguration events

The events of the day include the swearing-in ceremony, the inaugural address, and the pass in review. 

The crowd size of Trump’s 2017 inauguration became the source of controversy after his then press secretary claimed it was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration. Trump himself said the media misrepresented the crowd size at his first inauguration. 

Inauguration speakers and performers

The inauguration event typically includes speakers and performers.

Poet Amanda Gorman became an instant sensation when she recited "The Hill We Climb" at President Biden’s 2021 swearing-in. Lady Gaga performed the national anthem that year. 

Country star Toby Keith and Lee Greenwood of "God Bless the USA" fame performed at Trump’s 2017 inauguration. 

Kid Rock is rumored to perform at this year’s Trump inauguration.