Essential Insights for Travelers Attending Trump’s Indoor Inauguration in Washington

WASHINGTON (AP) — Adverse weather predictions indicate that President-elect Donald Trump will take the oath of office from within the Capitol Rotunda, preventing visitors from across the nation from witnessing it firsthand.

This decision to shift Monday’s ceremony indoors represents the first such alteration in 40 years. Arrangements are being made to host some attendees in town for Trump’s second inauguration at the city’s professional basketball and hockey venue.

READ MORE: Your itinerary of activities for Trump’s 2nd inauguration

Here’s what you ought to know if you were intending to journey to Washington, with further updates expected.

Where will Trump now be sworn in?

The Rotunda has been set up as a backup venue for every inauguration should inclement weather arise. The last time the swearing-in was relocated indoors was in 1985 when President Ronald Reagan commenced his second term. This Monday’s forecast predicts the coldest temperatures on Inauguration Day since that event.

President Joe Biden, members of Congress, as well as other dignitaries and distinguished guests will have the opportunity to view the ceremony from inside the Capitol.

How many members of the public can attend the inauguration inside?

In his social media announcement regarding the weather-related adjustment, Trump mentioned that “various Dignitaries and Guests” would be brought into the Rotunda for the ceremony, although it remains unclear how many individuals that entails, or who they might be.

As per Trump’s post, Capital One Arena — where the incoming president is scheduled to hold a Sunday afternoon rally, which he affirmed on Friday is still proceeding — will welcome visitors again on Monday for “LIVE viewing of this Historic event.” No details are currently available regarding how to register for a seat inside the arena on Monday.

What about the parade — is it still ongoing?

Trump also indicated that the Capital One Arena would “host the Presidential Parade,” another deviation from tradition. He added that he would “join the crowd” at Capital One following his oath-taking.

The parade is overseen by the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region, and they are urgently working to determine necessary modifications and how the parade will unfold, stated a task force representative. This official requested anonymity to disclose information before a public announcement regarding the parade’s continuation.

Typically, thousands of spectators line the route from the U.S. Capitol to the White House, which the president traditionally traverses after the swearing-in ceremony. Marching bands and other participants from across the nation travel to Washington to partake, suggesting that they will also be involved in the newly organized indoor festivities.

Are other inaugural events still taking place?

According to Trump, indeed. The Republican president-elect affirmed on Friday that other inaugural activities, including the Sunday rally and his participation in three inaugural balls on Monday night, will occur as planned.

How frigid will it get on Monday?

The National Weather Service forecasts that the temperature will hover around 22 degrees Fahrenheit (minus-6 Celsius) at noon Eastern time, when Trump ascends to the presidency. This would be the coldest reading since Reagan’s second inauguration, which experienced temperatures dropping to 7 degrees (minus-14 Celsius).

“The weather outlook for Washington, D.C., considering the windchill factor, might lead to dangerously low temperatures,” Trump shared on his Truth Social platform. “An Arctic blast is sweeping through the nation. I want to ensure that no individuals are harmed, or injured, in any fashion.”

Back in 2009, temperatures were at 28 degrees (minus-2 Celsius) during President Barack Obama’s swearing-in. Biden was inaugurated four years ago in a relatively mild 42 degrees (5.5 Celsius).

A few Democrats poked fun at Trump’s decision. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who was Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate in the Democrats’ unsuccessful 2024 campaign, shared a photo of himself standing in a snowstorm with the caption, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.”

If I decide not to attend the inauguration, can I receive a refund?

Tickets for the inauguration, when it was initially set to be held outdoors, are free, so no refunds are necessary.

Inquiries from the Associated Press concerning any plans by American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines regarding refunds or alternative arrangements for travelers adjusting their plans were not immediately addressed. Similar queries directed to hotel chains such as Hilton, IHG, Marriott, and Best Western Hotels also went unanswered promptly.

A spokesperson for the Transportation Department recommended that travelers consult the “Fly Rights” consumer guide located at www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/fly-rights.

Beaumont reported from Des Moines, Iowa.