America's 45th president Donald Trump will take oath on Thursday before a crowd of thousands in Washington DC. Republican Mr Trump beat Democrat candidate Hillary Clinton in November, riding high on the votes of white middle-class Americans in what has been one of the most controversial elections till date.

He would be sworn-in by Chief Justice John Roberts, using two books - the Bible given to him by his mother and the other, the one used by Abraham Lincoln to take oath 156 years ago, in 1861.

The inauguration of Donald Trump, highlight of several days of pomp in the US capital, will begin on Thursday in Washington DC's Lincoln Memorial at 10.35 am local time with "Voices of the People" --the first act of a day-long public concert.

The inauguration ceremony - to be held on the west front of the Capitol - will be attended by members of Congress, Supreme Court justices, diplomats and members of the public. Former presidents Jimmy Carter, George W Bush and Bill Clinton are expected to attend, as will Trump's election opponent Hillary Clinton.

Mr Trump will recite the oath of office at noon (local time), after the oath of his Vice President-elect Mike Pence. Later, he will deliver his inaugural address.

The day's festivities will also include three inaugural balls, where Mr Trump, vice President Mr Pence and their wives will make appearances. Two of the balls will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and the other at the National Building Museum.