WASHINGTON — Due to unfavorable weather predictions, President-elect Donald Trump will take the ceremonial oath of office within the Capitol Rotunda, which means that visitors traveling to Washington from across the nation will miss the chance to witness this momentous event in person.
The decision to shift Monday’s inauguration indoors is a rare occurrence, marking the first such change in four decades. Arrangements are being made to facilitate some attendees at a local arena for those in town for Trump’s second inauguration.
### Where will the inauguration take place now?
The Capitol Rotunda has been prepped as a backup location for inauguration ceremonies in inclement weather. The last time an inauguration was moved inside was in 1985, during President Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration. Forecasts for Monday predict temperatures will plummet to the lowest level seen on Inauguration Day since that event.
Dignitaries, including President Joe Biden and various members of Congress, will be able to observe the ceremony from within the Capitol. The United States Capitol Police announced that public areas outside the Capitol will be closed due to the extreme cold, preventing any gathering outside while Trump takes his oath indoors.
### How many attendees will be allowed inside?
In a recent social media update regarding the change in plans due to the weather, Trump mentioned that “various dignitaries and guests” would be welcomed into the Rotunda. However, the exact number of attendees or their identities remain unspecified.
As noted by Trump, the Capital One Arena—where he is slated to host a rally on Sunday—is set to open on Monday for “LIVE viewing of this historic event.” Details on how to secure a seat at the arena for the inauguration have yet to be disclosed.
### Is the parade still going forward?
Trump indicated that the Capital One Arena will also host the Presidential Parade, deviating from traditional practices. He mentioned his intention to join the attendees at the arena following the oath-taking.
The Joint Task Force-National Capital Region, responsible for managing the parade, is currently making necessary adjustments due to the situation. An official from the task force, who wished to remain unnamed, shared that details surrounding the parade’s execution are being finalized ahead of a public announcement.
Typically, the route from the U.S. Capitol to the White House is lined with thousands of spectators, and participants, including marching bands from various states, usually accompany the president on this journey. It is expected that similar festivities will continue in the newly planned indoor venue.
### Will other inaugural activities still occur?
Trump confirmed that other inaugural events will proceed as scheduled, including the rally on Sunday and his participation in three inaugural balls on Monday evening.
### What will the temperature be on Monday?
The National Weather Service forecasts that temperatures will be around 22 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately minus-6 Celsius) at noon Eastern Time when Trump officially assumes the presidency. This would set a record as the coldest Inauguration Day temperature since President Reagan’s second inauguration, which saw a frigid 7 degrees (minus-14 Celsius).
Trump noted on his Truth Social platform that the forecast indicates a potential for severe record low temperatures, expressing concern for the safety of attendees amidst an Arctic blast impacting the nation.
In comparison, President Barack Obama was sworn in during a relatively higher temperature of 28 degrees (minus-2 Celsius) in 2009, while President Biden’s inauguration a few years ago featured a milder 42 degrees (5.5 Celsius).
A few Democrats have humorously commented on Trump’s decision. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who served as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the recent 2024 election, shared a photo of himself in a snowstorm, captioned, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.”
### If I decide against attending the inauguration, can I receive a refund?
As the tickets for the inauguration were complimentary when initially planned for outdoor attendance, no refunds will be necessary. Inquiries with major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines regarding potential refunds or adjustments for travelers who decide to alter their plans have not been answered promptly. Similarly, requests for responses from hotel chains like Hilton, IHG, Marriott, and Best Western Hotels have gone unanswered.
A representative from the Transportation Department advised travelers to consult the agency’s “Fly Rights” consumer guide for further information.
