Every U.S. president has taken the oath at noon Eastern time, starting in 1937. Tomorrow, the us presidential inauguration start time will follow this tradition. Events will be held indoors for the first time in decades, due to cold weather.
President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in at 12 p.m. ET on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025. The ceremony will take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. Speeches are expected to start around 11:30 a.m. ET, despite the cold.
NBC will provide live coverage on TV and online. They will start reporting early and have a special program at noon. For more details, including gates and coverage times, check this complete schedule.
This guide gives you a quick look at tomorrow’s inauguration timing. It includes the oath, the start of speeches, and where to watch. Keep it handy for planning your morning.
What time does the inauguration start: exact ceremony time, oath, and swearing-in details
For those planning their morning, the big question is: what time does the inauguration start? The start time is set by law, and the schedule is strict. Speeches will lead up to the oath, with the swearing-in at exactly midday. If you’re watching on TV or attending in person, the late morning is key.
It is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day, marking only the third overlap with the holiday after Bill Clinton in 1997 and Barack Obama in 2013.
Presidential swearing-in time: 12 p.m. ET (noon) on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025
Donald Trump will take the oath at 12 p.m. ET on Monday, January 20, 2025. Chief Justice John Roberts will give the 35-word oath. Trump will place his hand on a Bible. This is when the presidency officially starts under law.
When does the inauguration start: speeches begin around 11:30 a.m. ET
Before the oath, speeches start around 11:30 a.m. ET. This sets the stage for the ceremony. It’s the best time to tune in for context and the formal start.
Vice-presidential oath timing: JD Vance sworn in moments before noon
JD Vance will take the vice-presidential oath just before noon. Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer it. This ensures both offices are covered in the brief window before 12 p.m. ET.
Constitutional timing: 20th Amendment transfer of power at 12 p.m. ET
The 20th Amendment sets the transfer of power at 12 p.m. ET (11 a.m. CT). This moment anchors all schedules and broadcasts. It shows the inauguration starts at noon, even if the oath is a bit early or late.
| Key Moment | Exact Time (ET) | Who Is Involved | What Viewers Should Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Speeches Begin | ~11:30 a.m. | Inaugural platform speakers | Ideal for those asking when does the inauguration start; sets context before the oath. |
| Vice-Presidential Oath | Moments before 12 p.m. | JD Vance; Justice Brett Kavanaugh | Occurs just ahead of the noon benchmark, aligning with us presidential inauguration start time coverage. |
| Presidential Oath | 12:00 p.m. | Donald Trump; Chief Justice John Roberts | Answers what time does the inauguration start and confirms the presidential swearing-in time. |
| Constitutional Transfer | 12:00 p.m. | As defined by the 20th Amendment | Legal authority shifts at noon; clarifies what time is the inauguration on Monday for official purposes. |
Note: If January 20 falls on a Sunday, the public ceremony moves to January 21; 2025’s Monday date keeps all times on the 20th.
In short, for anyone searching what time does the inauguration start or what time does inauguration start across listings, plan around 11:30 a.m. ET for speeches and 12 p.m. ET for the oath and transfer of power.
Full TV broadcast info: how to watch live on NBC, cable, and streaming
People asking what time the inauguration is on TV and when it starts can find clear info on NBC, cable, and streaming. The main event starts at noon ET. But, early coverage lets you catch every important moment in the schedule.
For those wondering about the inauguration tomorrow or the exact time in other countries, here’s a detailed guide. It shows the exact times and platforms for watching.
NBC live coverage windows: TODAY from 7 a.m. ET; special coverage from 10 a.m. ET
NBC starts with TODAY at 7 a.m. ET from Washington. It gives live updates before the big event. At 10 a.m. ET, Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie take over, leading the special broadcast through the oath and the day’s events. These times help you know when to watch the inauguration on TV, aligning with the noon ET start.
Where to stream: NBC News NOW on YouTube, Peacock, NBCNews.com, and NBC News app
Cord-cutters can watch NBC News NOW live on YouTube, Peacock, NBCNews.com, and the NBC News app. NBC’s 24/7 channel will show the ceremony, analysis, and key moments. This makes it easy to follow the inauguration schedule from any device.
Other networks carrying live coverage throughout the day
CNN, CBS, C‑SPAN, and PBS will have wall-to-wall coverage and streams on YouTube. International viewers can watch on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK, and ABC, Seven, Nine, Ten, and SBS in Australia. These options help viewers outside the U.S. find out when the inauguration is tomorrow and the exact time in their area.
Regional timing notes: NBC local stations and time zone conversions
NBC local stations show the same programming as national, with local notes. In Chicago, coverage starts at 9 a.m. CT on broadcast and streaming. Use these conversions to find out when the inauguration starts in your area: 12 p.m. ET equals 11 a.m. CT, 10 a.m. MT, and 9 a.m. PT.
| Platform/Network | Start Window (Local) | Primary Focus | How It Helps Viewers |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBC TODAY (Broadcast) | 7 a.m. ET | Live updates, arrivals, venue shots | Early answer to what time is the inauguration on tv and when does the inauguration start |
| NBC Special with Lester Holt & Savannah Guthrie | 10 a.m. ET | Lead-in to oath, speeches, analysis | Bridges morning coverage to inauguration time at noon ET |
| NBC News NOW (YouTube, Peacock, NBCNews.com, NBC News app) | Morning through evening | 24/7 live stream, replays, clips | Mobile-friendly way to follow the inauguration event schedule |
| NBC Local Stations (e.g., NBC Chicago) | 9 a.m. CT (regional) | Local timing, city guides | Clarifies what time is the inauguration tomorrow across time zones |
| CNN, CBS, C‑SPAN, PBS | Morning start; rolling | Live ceremony and commentary | Broad access for cable and free streaming viewers |
| BBC One/iPlayer; ABC/Seven/Nine/Ten/SBS (Australia) | Early morning local | International simulcasts | Answers pelantikan presiden jam berapa with local clocks |
| Time Zone Conversions | 12 p.m. ET = 11 a.m. CT = 10 a.m. MT = 9 a.m. PT | Oath timing | Pinpoints when does the inauguration start regardless of location |
Broadcast team and on-air talent: anchors, correspondents, and special coverage
The network focuses on clear, fast, and detailed coverage. For those wondering what time the inauguration is on TV, they can follow every moment. This is thanks to a clear schedule and a reliable broadcast team in Washington.
Anchors: Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie leading the special
Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie start the special at 10 a.m. ET. As the main anchors for NBC, they cover key moments. This includes the vice-presidential oath, the noon swearing-in, and the inaugural address.
They mix reporting with analysis. This helps viewers understand each segment in relation to the day’s events. For those comparing networks, this guide to rival coverage is helpful.
Contributors: Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Kristen Welker, Tom Llamas, Hallie Jackson, Peter Alexander
Craig Melvin and Al Roker start the morning live from Washington. They set the scene and track early arrivals. Kristen Welker, Tom Llamas, Hallie Jackson, and Peter Alexander report from the Capitol and the White House.
This team notes crowd movements, motorcade times, and the ceremony’s pace. They keep the coverage in sync with the official program.
Start times for segments: 7 a.m. ET kickoff; 10 a.m. ET for full coverage
The day starts at 7 a.m. ET with updates from the ground. Then, full coverage begins at 10 a.m. ET. NBC Chicago offers a 9 a.m. CT window for Central Time viewers.
These times help viewers know when to watch. They show when to catch the oath at noon ET. They also highlight when the schedule moves to the indoor parade and evening events.
| Time (ET) | Segment | Primary Talent | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 a.m. | Kickoff Updates | Craig Melvin, Al Roker | Scene setting, arrivals, early crowd notes |
| 10:00 a.m. | Special Coverage Begins | Lester Holt, Savannah Guthrie | Ceremony build-up, security and logistics |
| 11:30 a.m. | Pre-Oath Program | Kristen Welker, Tom Llamas | Procession, platform updates, final protocol |
| 11:55 a.m. | Vice-Presidential Oath | Hallie Jackson | Timing and context before noon transition |
| 12:00 p.m. | Presidential Oath | Lester Holt, Savannah Guthrie | Swearing-in, address, and national reaction |
| Afternoon | Indoor Parade Coverage | Peter Alexander | Parade highlights, review of the troops |
| Evening | Inaugural Events | Rotating Correspondents | Ball arrivals, speeches, and closing notes |
Tip: If you’re tracking the inauguration across time zones, local NBC stations offer live windows. These sync with the national feed, making it easy to follow the schedule from morning to evening.
Inauguration location update: indoor ceremony and parade adjustments due to freezing weather
Organizers have moved key events indoors to keep guests and staff safe from the cold. This change impacts the inauguration location, parade route, and the order of speeches. For those wondering when the inauguration starts or pelantikan presiden jam berapa, it’s set for noon.
Note for viewers: The indoor setting means different acoustics and seating than the West Front. So, arrive early and be ready for tighter screening times. Security will focus on keeping everyone warm and moving smoothly as it gets colder.
Indoor venue: U.S. Capitol Rotunda for swearing-in
The swearing-in and main speeches will now be in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. This move keeps the oath on schedule and protects everyone from the cold. It also makes it easier for TV networks to show the event live, no matter where you are.
Presidential Parade moved inside to Capital One Arena
The Presidential Parade will now take place at Capital One Arena. Marching bands and guests will perform on a set floor plan. Ticketed entry will be organized by block to keep the event flowing smoothly.
Weather outlook: high near 24°F, low near 9°F; subzero wind chills
The weather forecast is for highs around 24°F and lows near 9°F, with wind chills below zero. Light snow before the event could make things slippery. This confirms the decision to hold the inauguration indoors. The American flag will be displayed at the Capitol during the event.
Historical precedent: last indoor ceremony was Reagan’s second inauguration
This plan has a precedent. Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration was also held indoors in 1985 due to extreme cold. Other cold days, like 2009, have led to similar backup plans.
| Item | Original Plan | Updated Plan | Why It Changed | Viewer Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swearing-in | West Front of the Capitol | U.S. Capitol Rotunda | Subzero wind chills and safety | Confirm when does the inauguration start with your broadcaster |
| Presidential Parade | Pennsylvania Avenue route | Capital One Arena | Cold exposure for participants and crowds | Arrive early; follow arena security guidance |
| Public Seating | Outdoor ticketed sections | Limited indoor seating blocks | Capacity and heat management | Check credentials and entry times on the inauguration schedule |
| Broadcast Timing | Standard outdoor setup | Indoor camera positions | Light and audio control | Search pelantikan presiden jam berapa for local listings |
| Weather Risks | Cold but manageable | High 24°F, low 9°F; icy wind | Health and logistics concerns | Dress in layers if attending; plan transit buffers |
Inauguration Day schedule: morning events through evening inaugural balls
The Trump–Vance Inaugural Committee has released a detailed schedule for tomorrow’s inauguration. It answers the question of when does the inauguration start by focusing on the noon oath. The ceremony is the main event of the day, with broadcast times varying by region.
Security gates open early, with NBC Chicago covering live from 9 a.m. CT. The schedule also follows Washington’s advice for morning arrivals and screenings.
Morning: St. John’s Church service; tea at the White House
The day starts with a service at St. John’s Church near Lafayette Square. The president-elect and vice president-elect then join President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for tea at the White House. These events set the stage for the public ceremonies and mark the start of the inauguration for those attending and watching.
Midday: swearing-in ceremony; President’s Signing Room; JCCIC luncheon
The swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda is at 12 p.m. ET. This is the formal ceremony time for tomorrow’s inauguration. Immediately after, the President’s Signing Room hosts the first official acts. The JCCIC luncheon with congressional leaders follows. For those checking the us presidential inauguration start time, the oath at noon is the key moment.
Afternoon: review of the troops; indoor parade at Capital One Arena
The President’s Review of the Troops happens on the east front steps of the Capitol. The parade then moves to Capital One Arena, where Donald Trump will greet participants. Viewers can expect speeches and music as part of this indoor procession.
Evening: Oval Office signing; Commander in Chief, Liberty, and Starlight Balls
The evening includes an Oval Office signing at the White House. Three official balls follow: the Commander in Chief Ball honoring service members, the Liberty Ball with acts including the Village People, and the Starlight Ball for donors. For those comparing tomorrow’s inauguration timing across time zones, networks align coverage blocks around the noon oath and extend through the night.
Quick note for viewers wondering when does the inauguration start: key speeches typically begin before the oath, but the oath itself remains the midday focal point of the inauguration event schedule.
Performers and program highlights: who’s singing and when to tune in
The ceremony features top performers and a tight schedule. For those asking what time is the inauguration on tv or tomorrow, the late morning is key. The inauguration schedule and yemin töreni saat kaçta olur show music cues leading to the oath.
Carrie Underwood to perform “America the Beautiful” before the oath
Carrie Underwood will perform right before the swearing-in. Her song is at 11:30 a.m. ET, a highlight of the program.
This is the moment to watch if you’re asking what time is the inauguration on tv. The song bridges the final minutes before the oath and the address.
National anthem by opera singer Christopher Macchio
Opera singer Christopher Macchio will close with the national anthem. His performance is at noon, marking the end of the formalities.
For viewers wondering what time is the inauguration tomorrow or yemin töreni saat kaçta olur, this performance follows the oath. It signals the program’s end.
Additional performers: Lee Greenwood; evening acts at inaugural balls
Lee Greenwood will perform “God Bless the USA.” After the daytime program, the evening lineup takes over.
The inaugural balls feature Jason Aldean and the Village People at the Liberty Ball, Rascal Flatts at the Commander in Chief Ball, and Gavin DeGraw at the Starlight Ball. These acts are highlights for night viewers.
Tip: Tune in by 11:30 a.m. ET to catch the lead-in performances that frame the oath and headline moments.
Key viewer questions answered: inauguration time, TV listings, and special searches
Many viewers ask about the inauguration time and when it starts. Here’s the answer: live coverage starts early on major networks. The oath is at noon Eastern. If you’re looking for pelantikan presiden jam berapa or yemin töreni saat kaçta olur, it’s 12 p.m. ET, with speeches before.
TV and streaming details are important for knowing when to watch. NBC’s TODAY starts at 7 a.m. ET, and special coverage at 10 a.m. ET. NBC Chicago goes live at 9 a.m. CT. CNN, CBS, PBS, and C‑SPAN also air the ceremony. NBC streams on YouTube, Peacock, NBCNews.com, and the NBC News app.
What time is the inauguration on TV: coverage begins early morning, oath at noon ET
For those wondering what time the inauguration is on TV, expect coverage from sunrise. Reports build up to the program at about 11:30 a.m. ET. The oath is at 12 p.m. ET. For international viewers, convert noon Eastern to your local time.
What time is the inauguration on Monday: 12 p.m. ET swearing-in
For those checking the inauguration time on Monday, remember 12 p.m. ET. The schedule is fixed by law. Speeches start around 11:30 a.m. ET, and the vice-presidential oath before noon.
Trump inauguration what time: 12 p.m. ET; speeches from about 11:30 a.m. ET
Those searching for the Trump inauguration time will find it’s the same as Monday. Remarks start late morning, and the swearing-in is at noon ET. Plan your watch party to catch the run-up and the oath.
US presidential inauguration start time and 2021 vs. 2025 timing context
The 20th Amendment sets the transfer of power at 12 p.m. ET. This is why the 2021 and 2025 inauguration times are the same. In 2021, Joe Biden took the oath at noon ET. In 2025, the oath will also be at noon, with coverage starting hours earlier.
| Viewer Question | Direct Answer | Network/Platform | Local Timing Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| What time is the inauguration tomorrow? | Speeches ~11:30 a.m. ET; oath at 12 p.m. ET | NBC, CNN, CBS, PBS, C‑SPAN; NBC streaming | Convert from ET; CT is one hour earlier, PT three hours earlier |
| What time is the inauguration on TV? | Early coverage from 7 a.m. ET; special at 10 a.m. ET | NBC’s TODAY; network special; digital apps | NBC Chicago live at 9 a.m. CT |
| What time is the inauguration on Monday? | 12 p.m. ET swearing-in | All major U.S. networks | Check local listings for regional start times |
| Trump inauguration what time? | 12 p.m. ET oath; pre‑events from ~11:30 a.m. ET | Broadcast and streaming outlets | International: convert from noon ET |
| When does the inauguration start? | Program build-up midmorning; oath at noon ET | TV and online simulcasts | Mobile apps carry live push alerts |
| 2021 presidential inauguration time vs. 2025 | Both at 12 p.m. ET | Same networks carried both | 2021 outdoors; 2025 indoors due to cold |
| Pelantikan presiden jam berapa / yemin töreni saat kaçta olur | Noon Eastern (12:00 ET) | Global streams via news networks | Use local time conversion from ET |
Conclusion
Wondering what time the inauguration is tomorrow? It’s at 12 p.m. ET on Monday, January 20, 2025. Speeches start around 11:30 a.m. ET. The vice-presidential oath happens just before noon.
This time fits the 20th Amendment, marking the power transfer at midday. Due to cold, the swearing-in moves to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. The parade goes to Capital One Arena.
For TV viewers, NBC starts early. TODAY airs at 7 a.m. ET. Lester Holt and Savannah Guthrie lead a special at 10 a.m. ET.
Streaming is available on NBC News NOW via YouTube, Peacock, NBCNews.com, and the NBC News app. The inauguration starts at noon, but coverage builds up in the morning.
The inauguration follows a traditional schedule. It includes a St. John’s Church service, tea at the White House, and the swearing-in. There’s also a visit to the President’s Signing Room, a JCCIC luncheon, and a review of the troops.
An indoor parade and evening events, like the Oval Office signing and three official balls, complete the day. It’s America’s first indoor ceremony in 40 years, due to cold. It’s also one of the few on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
In short, coverage starts early and peaks at noon. With a precise time, a safe venue, and a broadcast plan, the day showcases civic tradition. Keep this guide handy to follow the inauguration schedule without missing a moment.
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