Highlights from President-elect Donald Trump’s first Inauguration Day; what to expect from Monday
President-elect Donald Trump is just days away from his second inauguration, and the excitement in Washington, D.C., and across the nation is palpable. Unlike his first inauguration in 2017, where he faced protests and lackluster support, Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election has garnered widespread enthusiasm and backing from celebrities, business leaders, and even former political adversaries.
After winning the election in a landslide, Trump has seen an outpouring of support from his traditional allies in the Republican Party, as well as unexpected endorsements from tech titans like Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerberg. These executives have pledged significant donations to Trump’s inaugural fund, signaling a new era of collaboration between the White House and Silicon Valley.
In addition to business leaders, union representatives like International Brotherhood of Teamsters President Sean O’Brien and members of the Firefighter’s Union will be in attendance at the inauguration, showcasing the broad coalition of support that Trump has cultivated since his victory.
The star-studded lineup for the inauguration includes performances by country music sensation Carrie Underwood, who will sing “America the Beautiful,” as well as opera singer Christopher Macchio, who will perform the national anthem. Other top music acts like Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, and the Village People are also slated to take the stage in Washington, D.C.
Unlike the protests that marred Trump’s first inauguration, the 2025 festivities are expected to be a celebration of unity and national pride. The weekend will kick off with a fireworks display on Saturday night, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and a “Make America Great Again” rally on Sunday.
On Inauguration Day, Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance will participate in the swearing-in ceremony, bid farewell to President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, and lead the Presidential Parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The day will culminate in three official inaugural balls, where Trump is expected to deliver remarks and celebrate his historic return to the White House.
The 2025 inaugural celebrations are a testament to Trump’s dedication to uniting the country and advancing his America First agenda. As the nation prepares to welcome its 47th president, the mood is one of excitement, optimism, and a renewed sense of national unity.
