Extreme weather conditions predicted for Monday in Washington, DC, have forced the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States and JD Vance as the 50th Vice President to be moved indoors for the first time since 1985.  The nation’s capital is expected to have a high of 23 degrees and low of 10 degrees on Inauguration Day, with the wind chill making it feel more like zero.

Ahead of the official ceremony, the North Carolina Society Inaugural Ball on Saturday evening was among several black-tie events across the city celebrating the inauguration, this one hosting the Tar Heel State’s congressional delegation and other revelers. The evening featured live music, elegant dining, and a celebration of North Carolina’s contributions to the nation.

As official festivities get under way, Trump takes office with a high rate of public approval. According to a new CBS News YouGov survey, 59% of Americans approve of how the Trump-Vance transition has been handled, with 55% either happy or satisfied that Trump won the November election.

On Sunday, Trump and Vance placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider at Arlington National Cemetery. They included two Gold Star families to join them in laying four wreaths at the memorial.

On Monday morning, the Trumps are scheduled to attend a church service at St. John’s Episcopal Church on Lafayette Square, followed by a visit to meet the Bidens at the White House.

Swearing-In Ceremony at the Capitol

The theme of the inauguration is “Our Enduring Democracy: A Constitutional Promise.” Monday’s official proceedings will begin with the swearing-in ceremony in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol as Trump’s first official act as 47th President of the United States. Chief Justice John Roberts is slated to administer the oath of office to Trump, with Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh administering the oath of office  to Vance.

Capital One Arena will serve as a live viewing of the ceremony and will feature a review of troops and the presidential parade marching through the arena. Finally, Trump will have another signing ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House.

US House Speaker Mike Johnson announced earlier in the week that the flag at the Capitol would be raised to full staff for the inauguration despite an order from President Joe Biden that flags remain at half-staff until Jan. 28, in honor of the late President Jimmy Carter. Johnson said the Capitol flag would return to half-staff on Tuesday. official inauguration website here.

A Star-Studded Musical Celebration

The ceremony will feature performances that highlight the spirit of the occasion. Eight-time Grammy winner Carrie Underwood will perform “America the Beautiful,” while celebrated American tenor Christopher Macchio will sing the National Anthem. Lee Greenwood is also set to perform his iconic “God Bless the USA,” a song closely associated with Trump’s campaign for the presidency.

Trump will speak at the Make America Great Again Victory Rally, which will also showcase acts such as Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, the Village People, and Liberty University’s Praise Choir.

James and Dolley Madison started the traditions of a White House reception and inaugural ball in 1809, according to the White House Historical Association. This year will be no exception.

On Monday evening the Liberty Ball will feature three-time Grammy Award-winning artist Nelly, plus Academy of Country Music artist of the decade Jason Aldean and the Village People, promising an exciting evening of music and patriotism. Also on Monday, the Commander-in-Chief Ball will highlight country music favorites Rascal Flatts and rising star Parker McCollum. The Starlight Ball will include a performance by singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw. The Trumps are scheduled to attend all three.

President-elect Donald Trump visits Capitol Hill ahead of inauguration. Source: Trump Vance Transition Team

A Vision for the Future

In his inaugural address, Trump is expected to focus on themes of unity, fairness, economic revitalization, and the continuation of his “America First” policies. Trump’s second term promises a focus on strengthening national security, bolstering US energy independence, and fostering economic growth.

With the National Mall already adorned with patriotic decorations and visitors pouring into Washington, the stage is set for what promises to be a memorable day in American history. The festivities will culminate with a fireworks display, illuminating the night sky as the nation ushers in what Trump’s supporters are calling a “new Golden Age.”

Note: This story has been updated to reflect that Justice Brett Kavanaugh will administer the oath of office to JD Vance.