New York City will welcome a new era as Zohran Mamdani is officially sworn in as its mayor at the stroke of midnight on Thursday 1 January 2026. The incoming Democrat has planned a unique two-part inauguration, blending intimate tradition with large-scale public celebration to mark the start of his term.
A Midnight Oath in a Historic Setting
The first, private ceremony is scheduled for just after midnight on New Year's Day. Mamdani will take his initial oath of office surrounded by family within the decommissioned Old City Hall subway station in Manhattan. This iconic location, part of the city's original 1904 subway line and famed for its beautiful tiled arches, has been closed to regular service since 1945.
The oath will be administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James, a key political ally. In a statement, Mamdani's office linked the choice of venue to his political philosophy, saying it symbolises a "commitment to the working people who keep our city running every day." Mamdani himself reflected that the station represents a past ambition to build transformative public works and stated his administration's goal is to rekindle that spirit.
Public Celebration with Political Heavyweights
A second, public swearing-in is set for 1 p.m. on Thursday afternoon on the steps of City Hall. This event will see Mamdani take the oath again, this time from U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, whom the mayor-elect cites as a political hero. U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will deliver opening remarks.
The ceremony is the result of planning by an inaugural committee that included notable figures such as actor John Turturro, playwright Cole Escola, and author Colson Whitehead, alongside various advocates and campaign workers.
A Citywide Block Party to Ring in the New Year
Mamdani's inauguration will extend beyond formalities into a genuine public festival. The afternoon event will be accompanied by a large block party along Broadway leading to City Hall. Organisers anticipate thousands of attendees, with plans for live performances, music, and interfaith elements, ensuring the celebrations continue throughout New Year's Day.
This dual-ceremony approach follows recent custom for New York's mayoral transitions. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was first sworn in at Times Square after the New Year's Eve ball drop, while his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, took his initial oath at his Brooklyn home.
As the clock ticks into 2026, Zohran Mamdani's historic inauguration, rooted in the city's past and celebrated with its people, sets the stage for his forthcoming administration.
