Donald Trump Returns to Washington for Inaugural Celebrations Amid Protests and Cold Weather

Donald Trump is set to return to Washington on Saturday, marking the start of events leading up to his second inauguration as president. This comes four years after he left the city following an attack on the Capitol by his supporters. The transition of power will feature a mix of traditional ceremonies and Trump's signature style, including a fireworks display at one of his luxury golf properties.

Thousands of supporters are expected to arrive from across the nation, joining tech industry leaders, business associates, and conservative media figures. Due to anticipated cold weather on Inauguration Day, organisers are moving most outdoor events indoors, including the swearing-in ceremony. "I think we made the right decision. We'll be very comfortable now," Trump told NBC News in a phone interview.

Protests and Preparations

Even before Trump's arrival, protesters began gathering in Washington. Melody Hamoud, a local resident, wore a pink hat from a 2017 protest against Trump's first inauguration. "I just didn't want to sit home and fret in front of the TV," she said. "I wanted to feel like our movement still has energy and be around others who felt the same."

Timothy Wallis travelled from Pocatello, Idaho, for the inauguration with friends. They had tickets for the outdoor ceremony but learned about the change of plans during their flight. Wallis expressed disappointment about the switch but noted he was accustomed to cold weather at home. "We left snow to come here," he said. "I brought my gloves!"

Inauguration Events and Attendees

The pageantry begins on Saturday when Trump departs his Florida residence for Washington. His advisers have not disclosed his activities for most of the day, except for an evening reception and fireworks show at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia. Meanwhile, Vice President-elect JD Vance will attend a Cabinet reception and host a dinner in Washington.

On Sunday, Trump will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery before attending a rally at Capital One Arena in Washington. A private dinner will follow this event. On Inauguration Day, Trump will begin with a prayer service at St. John's Episcopal Church before heading to the White House for tea with the outgoing president and first lady.

Ceremony Adjustments Due to Weather

The inauguration ceremony has been moved indoors due to expected frigid temperatures, making it the coldest Inauguration Day in 40 years. The Capitol Rotunda will host the event, although it can only accommodate 600 people. More than 250,000 guests were initially ticketed to view the inauguration from around the Capitol grounds.

As Trump takes office again, protests are less prominent compared to his first inauguration. The ceremonies and celebrations surrounding his return have overshadowed dissenting voices. This time, Trump's inaugural speech will focus on "unity and strength, and also the word fairness," as he told NBC News.

Notable Performers and Guests

The events surrounding Trump's inauguration will feature more celebrities than before, including country music stars Carrie Underwood, Billy Ray Cyrus, Jason Aldean; disco band Village People; rapper Nelly; and musician Kid Rock. Actor Jon Voight and wrestler Hulk Hogan are also expected to appear.

A group of business executives supportive of Trump will attend as well: Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew are among those expected.

Biden plans to uphold one of democracy's key traditions by welcoming Trump to the White House before they travel together to the Capitol for Trump's oath-taking ceremony.