US President-elect Donald Trump announced on January 17, 2025, that his inauguration ceremony, originally scheduled to take place outdoors, will now be held indoors in the Rotunda of the US Capitol due to expected freezing temperatures.
Trump shared the news on his Truth Social platform, attributing the change to an “Arctic blast” sweeping across the nation.
He stated that prayers, speeches, and his inaugural address would all take place inside the Capitol Rotunda, which has a limited capacity of a few hundred people.
The move means Trump will not address the crowd from the steps of the Capitol, overlooking the National Mall, a space traditionally used for the inaugural ceremonies.
Instead, he said, supporters could view the event live at Washington’s Capital One Arena, where Trump planned to join the crowd after the swearing-in ceremony.
The shift comes after forecasts predicted dangerous cold, with temperatures expected to drop well below freezing and strong winds adding to the chill.
Preparations had already been made for a large turnout on the Mall, but most spectators will now need to watch the event on television.
This will be the first time since Ronald Reagan’s 1985 inauguration that such an emergency measure has been taken due to weather.
Trump, who will become the oldest person to assume the presidency at 78, promised that the ceremony in the Rotunda would still be a “beautiful experience,” especially for the large TV audience.
While some attendees may be disappointed by the weather-related change, Trump supporters remain excited, with some expressing their anticipation for the event’s viewing at the arena.
Additionally, the traditional parade along Pennsylvania Avenue will still take place, with security measures already in place to ensure safety during the event.
