NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Gov.-elect Bill Lee has announced that his inaugural ceremony had to be moved due to weather, and the inaugural worship service is also moving locations to meet increased demand.
Lee's inauguration ceremony was moved to the War Memorial Auditorium in downtown Nashville at 11 a.m. CST Saturday due to inclement weather, where tickets are not required.
“While the weather doesn’t seem to be cooperating, we are looking forward to a fantastic inaugural weekend,” said Lee. “I encourage Tennesseans to be safe, but still also feel welcome to attend this historic event. We are making every effort to accommodate overflow space for those wishing to attend because I want to ensure no Tennessean is turned away who wants to join us for the festivities.”
Later, Lee and his wife Maria will attend two inaugural balls at the Music City Center. Tickets range from $50 to $250.
Lee's transition team also said Wednesday the Republican's worship service will now be held at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. It was previously scheduled to be at the Ryman Auditorium.
Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Nicole C. Mullen, Matthew West and other performers are scheduled to headline the worship service on Jan. 19 at 8:30 a.m. CST.
The event is free, but tickets are required to attend and can be found at BelieveinTN.com.