In a rare alignment of history, Inauguration Day in 2025 will fall on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. While this coincidence is unusual, it has happened once before—on January 20, 1997, during President Bill Clinton’s second inauguration.
Although Inauguration Day is a federally recognized event, it is only observed as a holiday for federal employees working in Washington, D.C. According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, workers in the capital receive the day off every four years when a president is inaugurated.
Key Details About the 2025 Presidential Inauguration
When Will the New President Take Office?
The official swearing-in ceremony for the 60th Presidential Inauguration will take place on Monday, January 20, 2025. With this event, Donald Trump is set to become only the second president in U.S. history to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland, who was elected in 1884 and 1892.
What Time Does the Inauguration Start?
The main ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. CT (12 p.m. ET). Security screenings for attendees will open as early as 5 a.m. CT, followed by musical performances and opening remarks leading up to the swearing-in. Media coverage of the inauguration will begin as early as 9 a.m. CT.
Where to Watch the Inauguration Live
NBC News and NBC Chicago will provide live coverage of the inauguration on television and via their 24/7 streaming platform. Additionally, the event will be streamed on NBC Chicago’s YouTube channel.
Also Read – Will Mail Be Delivered on MLK Day 2025? Bank & Shipping Service Hours Explained
Official Schedule of 2025 Inauguration Events
Saturday, January 18, 2025
- The President’s Reception and Fireworks – Trump Sterling
- Cabinet Reception and Vice President’s Dinner
Sunday, January 19, 2025
- Arlington National Cemetery Ceremony – Wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Make America Great Again Victory Rally – President Trump delivers remarks
- Candlelight Dinner – President Trump delivers remarks
Monday, January 20, 2025 (Inauguration Day)
- St. John’s Church Service
- Tea at the White House
- Swearing-In Ceremony – U.S. Capitol
- Farewell to Outgoing President and Vice President – Departure ceremony at the U.S. Capitol
- The President’s Signing Room Ceremony
- JCCIC Congressional Luncheon
- The President’s Review of the Troops
- Presidential Parade – Pennsylvania Avenue
- Oval Office Signing Ceremony – The White House
- Commander in Chief Ball – President Trump delivers remarks
- Liberty Inaugural Ball – President Trump delivers remarks
- Starlight Ball – President Trump delivers remarks
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
- National Prayer Service
With a packed schedule of events, this historic day will mark the beginning of a new presidential term while also sharing the spotlight with Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Whether attending in person or watching from home, Americans will witness a unique moment in the nation’s history .
