Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as New York City mayor tomorrow

New York: Zohran Mamdani will officially become mayor of New York City as the calendar turns to 2026, with the city’s New Year celebrations set to extend into the day.

The Democrat’s team has planned two swearing -in ceremonies for Thursday: a private midnight ceremony with his family at a historic subway station, followed by a public event in the afternoon featuring a block party outside City Hall.

It has long been customary for incoming mayors to hold two ceremonies, as the term begins immediately with the new year. Outgoing mayor Eric Adams took his first oath shortly after the Times Square ball drop, while Bill de Blasio was sworn in at his Brooklyn home.

Mamdani will take his initial oath at the former City Hall subway station in Manhattan, one of the city’s original stops on its first subway line, famed for its tiled arches and vaulted ceilings. The station was decommissioned in 1945, and today is mostly accessible only through occasional historical tours or glimpses from the 6 train’s turnaround.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, a political ally and notable critic of former President Donald Trump, will administer the oath.

Mamdani’s office said the choice of location reflects his “commitment to the working people who keep our city running every day.”

“When Old City Hall Station first opened in 1904, it stood as a monument to a city that dared to be both beautiful and transformative for working peoples’ lives,” Mamdani said. “That ambition need not be confined to our past, nor limited to the tunnels beneath City Hall; it will guide the administration fortunate enough to serve New Yorkers from the building above.”

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Zohran Mamdani and Bernie Sanders

Later in the day, Mamdani will be sworn in again on the steps of City Hall at 1 p.m., with US Senator Bernie Sanders administering the oath. US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will deliver opening remarks.

Mamdani’s inaugural committee includes actor John Turturro, playwright Cole Escola, and author Colson Whitehead, alongside advocates, small business owners, and campaign staff, who his office says have provided “perspective, guidance, and cultural sensibility” for the ceremony.

The public swearing-in will be accompanied by a block party along Broadway leading up to City Hall, featuring performances, music, and interfaith elements. Thousands are expected to attend.