Under the Constitution’s 20th Amendment, the newly elected president of the United States takes office on Jan. 20 (unless that’s a Sunday, in which case it moves to Jan. 21). For Trump’s (second) big day, the pomp and circumstance will include performances by Carrie Underwood and the Village People, a military parade, and formal balls.

Mr. Trump announced that his inauguration would be moved indoors because of the frigid weather forecast. I went to the National Mall to see how preparations were evolving. The change in location means that far fewer people will be able to watch in person as Trump officially becomes the 47th president.

Lawmakers plan to skip the festivities surrounding the incoming Republican president for various reasons, as Democrats lick their wounds after election season.