Spanberger inaugural committee unveils weekend event schedule
Free Press staff report | 12/18/2025, 6 p.m.
Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger’s inaugural committee has released the schedule for the Commonwealth’s upcoming inauguration weekend, set for Jan. 16-18. The events will mark Spanberger’s swearing-in as Virginia’s 75th governor.
The theme, “United for Virginia’s Future,” reflects her pledge to serve all Virginians and involve their voices in state decision-making.
“These celebrations honor far more than any one person — they honor the story of the people of Virginia,” Spanberger said. “The upcoming inauguration will reflect the values that unite us as Virginians — a shared desire to build a stronger future for our children, the triumphs of generations of Virginians who carried us to this moment, and the rich cultures that are woven into the fabric of our Commonwealth.”
The weekend will begin Friday, Jan. 16 with the Made in Virginia Market at Richmond’s 17th Street Market in Shockoe Bottom, where local vendors will showcase goods, services and experiences. That evening, Spanberger and incoming first gentleman Adam Spanberger will host a ticketed welcome reception at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.
Saturday, Jan. 17 will include an interfaith prayer breakfast at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church by invitation. The inauguration ceremony, featuring Spanberger, Lt. Gov.-elect Ghazala Hashmi and Attorney General-elect Jay Jones, is scheduled for noon at Capitol Square. Tickets are required.
Following the ceremony, an inaugural parade will march through Capitol Square, featuring participants from communities across the state. The day will conclude with a ticketed inaugural ball at Main Street Station, featuring performances, food and drinks.
On Sunday, Jan. 18, the weekend will close with a pancake breakfast hosted by the first gentleman at the Science Museum of Virginia and an open house at the Executive Mansion, open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
Additional details about ticketing and participation are expected in the coming weeks.
