The District of Columbia plays host every four years to the inauguration of the country’s president and the related activities such as the inaugural parade, balls and galas and other festive events. Hundreds of thousands of American citizens from across the country will visit the District to take part in this historic event.

The 56th Presidential Inauguration will be a historic one, and the district is expecting tremendous turnout for the events. They are urging spectators to use public transportation and arrive early. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) is the area’s main source of public transportation. To plan your trip via the Metro, use Metro’s Trip Planner at www.wmata.com.

For those that are planning to take the Metro should prepare for fees- WMATA has announced that they will be charging rush-hour rates while providing extended rush hour service. For those that want to park can expect a $4 fee. Typically fares are reduced and parking is free on Federal holidays- however this is clearly not a typical Federal holiday. WMATA is raising the fees in order to cope with increased costs that will be expected with Inauguration.

For the Swearing-In Ceremony, security checkpoints will open for ticketed guests at 8:00 am and the musical prelude begins at 10 am. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies advises arriving no later than 9:00 am to ensure that you are through the checkpoints by the time the program begins. Screening will end when the program begins at 11:30 am and late arrivals will not be able to enter the grounds.

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Inaugural Schedule

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has outlined a preliminary schedule of official inaugural events that underscores our commitment to holding an inaugural that is open, accessible, and brings us all together in a spirit of unity.

The inaugural celebration will begin in the city where our democracy was born and the promise of our country was realized. On Saturday, January 17th, President-elect Barack Obama will be holding an event in Philadelphia, before boarding a train bound for our nation’s capital. He will be picking up Vice President-elect Joe Biden and his family in Wilmington, DE, and then making a stop for an event in Baltimore, MD, before pulling into Washington, D.C. that afternoon.

The following events will take place in the nation’s capital between Sunday, January 18th and Wednesday, January 21st:

Sunday, January 18th
President-elect Barack Obama will kick off the schedule of official inaugural activities in Washington, D.C., with a welcome event on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Sunday afternoon. The event will be free and open to the public.

Monday, January 19th - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
In 1994, to further commemorate a man who lived his life in service to others, Congress transformed the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday into a national day of community service. To honor Dr. King’s legacy, the President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families, joined by Americans in communities all across the country, will participate in activities dedicated to serving others in communities across the Washington, D.C. area.

That night, on the eve of the Inauguration, there will be a youth concert at the Verizon Center in downtown Washington, D.C. The concert will be free, but tickets are required.

Tuesday, January 20th - Inauguration Day
The President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families will participate in the traditional inaugural ceremonies and events. For the first time ever, the length of the National Mall will be open to those wishing to attend the swearing-in ceremony. Festivities will commence at 10 a.m. on the west front of the U.S. Capitol and will include:

• Musical Selections: The United States Marine Band, followed by The San Francisco Boys Chorus and the San Francisco Girls Chorus
• Call to Order and Welcoming Remarks: Senator Dianne Feinstein
• Invocation: Dr. Rick Warren
• Musical Selection: Aretha Franklin
• Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will be sworn into office by Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, the Honorable John Paul Stevens
• Musical Selection: John Williams, composer/arranger with Itzhak Perlman, (violin), Yo-Yo Ma (cello), Gabriela Montero (piano) and Anthony McGill (clarinet)
• President-elect Barack H. Obama will take the Oath of Office, using President Lincoln’s Inaugural Bible, administered by the Chief Justice of the United States, the Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr.
• Inaugural Address
• Poem: Elizabeth Alexander
• Benediction: The Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery
• The National Anthem: The United States Navy Band “Sea Chanters”

After President Obama gives his Inaugural Address, he will escort outgoing President George W. Bush to a departure ceremony before attending a luncheon in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall. The 56th Inaugural Parade will then make its way down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the White House with groups traveling from all over the country to participate.

Later that day, the Presidential Inaugural Committee will host ten official Inaugural Balls. More details about the Inaugural Balls will be released at a later date.

Wednesday, January 21st
The newly-inaugurated President and Vice President of the United States will participate in a prayer service.

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Commemorative Obama Inauguration farecards, One-Day Passes now available

Metro officials have started to load commemorative Barack Obama Inauguration farecards and One-Day Passes in fare vending machines at Metrorail stations.

The commemorative farecards are replacing the regular farecards in the vending machines. Metro printed five million of the specially designed farecards with President-elect Barack Obama on the face of the cards. They replace the farecards with an image of two pandas on the front. When the stock of Obama cards is exhausted, Metro will return to the panda farecards. The supply of commemorative cards is expected to last through Inauguration Weekend.

Vending machines on the Green Line and several and Yellow Line stations already have the commemorative cards and One-Day Passes available. Metro technicians will continue to place the new commemorative One-Day Passes and farecards in vending machines throughout the Metrorail system until all vending machines carry the cards. The remaining vending machines will be stocked with the commemorative cards by the end of next week.

Metro officials encourage people to purchase the Commemorative Inauguration One-Day Passes in vending machines for $7.80 in advance of Inauguration Weekend. Or they can purchase regular One-Day Passes as well as the Commemorative Inauguration One-Day Passes through Metro’s Web site for $10, which includes a handling fee.

People can purchase One-Day Passes in advance of using them. They remain valid until the day they are used.

People who are planning to travel via Metro during Inauguration Weekend to purchase a One-Day Pass for each day they are planning to travel via Metrorail. “If there are two people traveling together and they are planning to ride Metrorail for four days, they should purchase eight cards now and set them aside,” explained Metro General Manager John Catoe. “Riders will need to keep the used cards separate from their unused cards because they look the same, even after they are processed through the faregates. Plus, if you’re looking for a last-minute stocking stuffer, this would be a wonderful keepsake,” Catoe said.

People can also sign up for special e-alerts dedicated to the Inauguration on Metro’s Web site at http://www.wmata.com/inauguration. E-alerts will be issued when Metro has news relating to service for the Inauguration, and, perhaps more importantly, when there may be service disruptions during the course of the four-day Inauguration Weekend.

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Metro Plans for Inauguration Day

Metrorail will operate rush hour service for 17 consecutive hours (4 a.m. to 9 p.m.), will stay open for two extra hours (until 2 a.m.), charge $4 for parking at its facilities and will be one important transportation alternative for people who are planning to attend the Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama on Tuesday, January 20, 2009.

Metro officials expect extremely crowded conditions on Inauguration Day. Metrorail stations and trains will be packed as people head to the Inauguration, and expect to see even tighter conditions afterward. Expect the crowds to be huge with hundreds of thousands of people expected to be in the nation's capital not only for Inauguration Day, but for the days preceding it as well.

The U.S. Secret Service has deemed the Inauguration as a special national security event and due to security measures, the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter station on Metro's Green and Yellow Lines and the Smithsonian station on the Blue and Orange Lines, will be closed on Inauguration Day, Tuesday, January 20.

Metrorail Travel

In anticipation of crowded trains, Metrorail will operate continuous rush hour service from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Inauguration Day, Tuesday, January 20, and will charge peak fares between these times. Metro will have extra personnel on hand to help patrons get to and from the events.

Dates Metrorail Hours Special Metrorail Service Parking
Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009 7 am to 3 am Regular Saturday Schedule Free
Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009 7 am to midnight Regular Sunday Schedule Free
Monday, Jan. 19, 2009 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday) 5 am to midnight Saturday Holiday Service Free
Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009 (Inauguration Day) 4 am to 2 am Rush Hour Service Through 9 pm $4 (cash only)

On Inauguration Day, all Metrorail station restrooms will be closed, and bicycles will not be permitted in the Metrorail system.

Metrobus Travel

Metrobus will be operating on a "modified" Saturday schedule from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Inauguration Day. However, with the anticipated street closures around the Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue for the parade, all Metrobuses will be prepared for last minute changes. Bus customers are encouraged to plan significant extra time to travel through these areas. Metro is running 23 special rapid bus corridors to carry thousands of people heading to the National Mall on Inauguration Day.

Dates Special Metrobus Service

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009 Regular Saturday Schedule
Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009 Regular Sunday Schedule
Monday, Jan. 19, 2009 (Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday) Regular Weekday Service
Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009 (Inauguration Day) Modified Saturday Service from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m.(expect major delays downtown)

MetroAccess Travel

MetroAccess will operate identical hours to Metrorail and Metrobus over the Inauguration Weekend and through Inauguration Day. MetroAccess customers are encouraged to plan significant extra time to travel due to increased traffic throughout the service area. With the anticipated street closures around the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue for the parade on Inauguration Day, all MetroAccess users should be prepared for detours. MetroAccess customers are reminded to reserve their trip by 4:30 p.m., the day prior to travel.

Parking

Metrorail parking facilities will open at 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday January 20. Metro will charge $4 (cash only) per automobile for parking on Inauguration Day at all Metrorail lots and garages. Parking will be free at all Metrorail facilities from Saturday, January 17 to Monday, January 19, 2009. Metro has about 60,000 parking spaces in 29 lots and 22 garages throughout the Washington region. Reserved parking rules will not be in effect. No passenger vehicle with more than 15 people will be permitted to drop off passengers at any Metro station for safety reasons.

The Minnesota Avenue station parking lot, which has 333 spaces, will be closed to provide parking for Metro employees working on Inauguration Day.

Security

Station Closures Due To Security
To accommodate security precautions related to the inauguration, the parade, and inaugural balls on Inauguration Day, the following Metrorail stations will be closed:

Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter (Green/Yellow Line) station.

Smithsonian (Blue/Orange Line) station.

Metro Transit Police Security Initiatives

The Metro Transit Police Department and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are collaborating to enhance security at Metrorail stations and on trains and buses during Inauguration Weekend. The TSA will provide Metro with additional teams of TSA officers with canines to patrol stations and trains to supplement Metro's team of explosive ordnance detection officers and canines.

The Metro Transit Police strongly recommend that customers bring as little as possible with them when traveling through the Metrorail system to cut down on the possibility that items are left behind, resulting in the need for Metro or TSA officers to respond to reports of unattended items.

On Inauguration Day, all Metrorail station restrooms will be closed for security reasons.

Customers are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior, unusual activity or unattended items to a uniformed Metro employee or police officer or by calling the Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121.

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Travel Tips

Metrorail riders should purchase either a One-Day Pass or be sure to have enough fare value on their SmarTrip® cards or farecards to make a round trip so as not to have to stand in line to add fare more than once. Each passenger must have his/her own farecard or SmarTrip® card.

Metro is selling the commemorative fare media prior to Inauguration Weekend. Metro's One Day Pass, available for $7.80 each day, will be valid throughout the four-day Inauguration holiday weekend. If possible, customers should purchase their farecards in advance.

Metro has published a commemorative walking guide and map illustrating the closest locations of various Metrorail stations to the inaugural swearing-in ceremony and Presidential Parade. The brochure will be available at all Metrorail stations and can be downloaded here. Metro officials will be seeking sponsorship from private companies interested in advertising inside the commemorative walking guide. Up to one million copies of the walking guide will be printed.

Tickets for the Inauguration are expected to be coded in a way that will advise ticket-holders to use designated Metrorail stations to get to their seating/viewing location.

Customers should expect that many rail station escalators will be turned off to help meter large crowds for safety.

Due to the changing nature of this event and heightened security, all information is subject to change.

Bus Parking

Please help determine the regional parking needs for buses for the 2009 Presidential Inauguration. Groups arriving by motor coach must register their information. Due to the high security and number of attendees coming to see the 2009 Presidential Inauguration, access to the National Mall and available bus parking in the region will be tightly managed. Charter bus parking both inside the city of Washington, DC and in the outlying regional areas will be released to registered groups as parking lot assignments become available.

Upon parking at RFK Stadium, passengers arriving for the 2009 Presidential Inauguration should board Metrorail at the Stadium-Armory station adjacent to the stadium and ride the Blue or Orange line to the L'Enfant Plaza station. Metrorail passes should be purchased in advance.

Bus Trip Permits

Motor carriers, chartered buses (including chartered shuttle buses), and other vehicles that fall under the definition of apportionable vehicles but are not apportioned or fully registered in the District of Columbia, may obtain a trip permit for a $50 fee. The Trip Permit is valid for six (6) days of travel within the District of Columbia. It must be maintained on the vehicle throughout the duration of travel in the District of Columbia. The trip permit is only to be used for the vehicle listed on the front of the permit.

Many inaugural balls and galas will take place at venues throughout the Washington, DC area in January 2009. This inaugural celebration guide includes official and unofficial balls and will be updated as events are announced.

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Official Inaugural Balls

Ten official balls, planned by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, will be held on the night of January 20, 2009 and are the only ones that the Obamas and Bidens are guaranteed to attend.

Neighborhood Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. In keeping with his commitment to make this inaugural celebration open and accessible to all Americans, President-elect Barack Obama will host the first-ever “Neighborhood Inaugural Ball” with tickets available free or at an affordable price. It is the first official inaugural ball of its kind to be held during a presidential inauguration.

Commander-in-Chief's Inaugural Ball - National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. The ball is in honor of the country's active duty and reserve military. Invited guests will include wounded warriors (Purple Heart recipients), families of fallen heroes, and spouses of deployed military. Tickets will be provided free of charge to all invited guests. This event is not open to the general public.

Youth Inaugural Ball - For Ages 18-35 - Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW. This ball will celebrate the inauguration and the role young Americans can play to serve their communities. Tickets $75.

Obama Home States Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. Illinois and Hawaii invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Biden Home States Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. Delaware and Pennsylvania invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Eastern Inaugural Ball - Union Station, 40 Massachusetts Ave NE. CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT, PR, and USVI invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Mid-Atlantic Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. MD, VA, DC, NY, NJ, and WV invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Midwest Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. KS, IN, IA, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, SD, WI, and MO invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Southern Inaugural Ball - National Guard Armory, 2001 East Capitol St. SE. AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, and TX invited guests. Tickets: $150.

Western Inaugural Ball - Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, NW. AK, CA, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY, AZ, CO, NV, NM, UT, OK, GUAM/AS and invited guests. Tickets: $150.

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Pre-Inaugural and Inaugural Ball Cruises

Jan. 16, 17 and 20, 2009. The Spirit of Washington and Odyssey III invite the public to celebrate with friends and family on special inaugural themed cruises. Only the Inauguration Ball Cruise (on Jan. 20) will be black tie, but all cruises will feature patriot-themed décor, live music and dining. Tickets: $68-101.

A Historical Affair
Jan. 16, 2009. United States Chamber of Congress, 1615 H St., NW. Sponsored by the National Congress of Black Women. Tickets: $135 Dessert Reception, $285 Dinner.

People's Inaugural Premier
Jan. 16, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating a new generation of grassroots activists. Tickets: $75.

Audacity of Hope Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Fairmont Washington Hotel, 2401 M St. NW. Proceeds benefit Returning Wounded Soldiers from Iraq and their Families. Tickets: $350. Call (702) 893-0401 or email rodgaines@rodgainesevents.com

A Celebration of Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Hyatt Regency, 400 New Jersey Ave. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Tickets: $175.

Inaugural Ball – “The Dream Realized”
Jan. 17, 2009. Camelot by Martins, 13905 Central Ave. Upper Marlboro, MD. Formal dinner gala, Live entertainment, special guest soloist, video tribute and more. Hosted by volunteers from the Obama For America organization. Tickets: $75

Green Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, 1301 Constitution Ave. NW. DC’s most environmentally-friendly pre-Inaugural celebration. Headline performance by Wyclef Jean. Organic food and drink, LED lighting, entertainment audio-visual production will be tailored to minimize environmental impact. Tickets: $500.

H.O.P.E. (Honoring Our President-Elect) Inaugural Youth Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Trinity University, 125 Michigan Ave. NE. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to National Network for Youth. Tickets: $75 first 200 sold - $100 thereafter.

National Council of Women’s Organizations Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. President James Monroe Mansion, 2017 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. Commemorating the role of women in President-Elect Obama's historic victory and honoring women leaders in politics. Performance by 2009 Grammy nominee Wayna. Tickets: $500.

People's Inaugural Ball
Jan. 17, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating a new generation of grassroots activists. Tickets: $125.

Spirit of Asia in America: Presidential Inaugural Reception
Jan 17, 2009. The St. Regis, Astor Ballroom, 16th & K Sts. NW. The Asia Society invites the public to celebrate the democratic process and the contributions of Asian Americans to this historic Presidential election. Tickets: Members $100 per person, $175 per couple. Non-members $150 per person, $275 per couple.

African Diaspora Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Harman Center for the Arts, 610 F Street, NW. The Ball features Grammy award winner Angelique Kidjo, Grammy-award nominated Les Nubians, international Haitian songwriter Bélo and more of the brightest stars from the African Diaspora. Tickets: $150 and up.

California State Society Inaugural Fashion Show & Lunch
Jan. 18, 2009, 11:30 a.m. Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 1150 22nd St. NW.

California Bash - California Democratic Party Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, National Mall. Tickets: $150.

Children's Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009 - FREE Daytime Event. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K Street, NW. Free tickets are required. Sponsored by Every Child Matters Education Fund. Live music, arts and crafts, interactive exhibits, play areas, and a story-time stage. - WAITING LIST.

Disability Power and Pride Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor. Sponsored by the American Association of People with Disabilities. Tickets: $100.

"Dreams from My Father" American Scholars Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Four Seasons Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The black-tie event will bring together notable businesspersons, political figures and entertainers for an intergenerational celebration. Tickets: $350-$550.

Foreign Diplomats Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. The James Monroe Mansion, 2017 I St., NW. Sponsored by Embassies of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Ghana. Tickets: $350.

The 2009 Hope Won Inaugural Gala
Jan. 18, 2009. Westin Annapolis, 100 Westgate Circle, Annapolis, MD. Sponsored by Therapeutic Wellness LLC to benefit the Diane Freeman Foundation. Black tie, four course dinner, live music, silent auction. Tickets: $150.

Junior State of America Inaugural Event
Jan. 18, 2009. Hotel Monaco, 700 F Street NW. Hosted by the Junior State of America and The Junior Statesmen Foundation. Tickets: $75, or sponsorship levels available. Contact alumni@jsa.org.

Lincoln 2.0 Inaugural Ball
Jan. 18, 2009. Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. Sponsored by Destination DC. Celebrate the Obama inauguration in the landmark building where Lincoln celebrated his own inauguration in 1865. Proceeds benefit The American Art Museum and The American Experience Foundation, a charity that develops national programs to educate the public about the arts, culture, American democracy and unique heritage of Washington, DC. Black tie, Victorian attire welcome. Tickets: $375.

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Metropolitan Gala on the Georgetown Waterfront
Jan. 18, 2009. 3050 K St., NW. Event located at 3 restaurants along the Potomac River: Tony & Joe's, Cabanas and Nick's Riverside Grill. Heated tents will connect the venues as well provide comfortable access along the river walkway. Portions of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Behind the Bench, The NBA Wive's Association, a charitable organization as well as Peoples Involvement Corporation, a non-profit organization that provides job training and affordable housing to residents of DC. Tickets: $300.

National Association of Manufacturers Gala Celebration
Jan. 18, 2009. Ronald Reagan International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets: $200.

People's Inaugural LGBT Gala
Jan. 18, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St., NW. Celebrating LGBT grassroots activists. Tickets: $100.

2009 Green Inaugural Ball (Hosted by Al Gore)
Jan. 19, 2009. National Portrait Gallery. SOLD OUT.

American Indian Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 20 and 21, 2009. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA. Three events celebrate Native American leaders, organizations, artists and musicians. Tickets: $110-150.

Arkansas State Society Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW. Tickets: $125.

Dream Makers Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Bobby Vans Grill, 1201 New York Ave. Proceeds will benefit John Lewis Scholarship Fund, National Action Network and Rainbow Push Coalition. Tickets: $250.

Georgia State Society of Washington, DC
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, 10th and Constitution Avenue NW. Tickets: $200.

HBCU Inaugural Gala Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Sequoia at Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. Sponsored by Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Tickets: $300.

Historical Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Historical Society of Washington, 801 K St. NW. The ball celebrates the inauguration of Barack Obama and the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. Tickets: $200 (301) 661-1617.

History in the Making, “A Dream & A Change” Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Sheraton Crystal City Hotel, 1800 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Gala theme is "On the shoulders of heroes". Celebrating the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the victory of president-elect Barack Obama. Event is open to all. Tickets: must be purchased before December 15th, $199.

Illinois State Society of Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Renaissance Washington Hotel, 999 9th St. NW. - SOLD OUT

Indiana Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Omni-Shoreham Hotel, 2500 Calvert St. NW. Tickets: $295 before Dec. 19, $350 after.

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Kentucky Society Bluegrass Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, 2660 Woodley Roads NW. Tickets: $178.50.

Nebraska Society Inaugural Brunch
Jan. 19, 2009. The Columbus Club, Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Avenue, NE. Tickets: $45.

New Mexico State Society Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, 4th St. and Independence Ave. SW.

North Carolina State Society Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park Hotel – SOLD OUT

One People, One Nation United
Jan. 19, 2009. City Club at Franklin Square, 1300 Eye St. NW. Sponsored by the Imagen Foundation which promotes diversity in the entertainment industry. Tickets: $125 before Jan. 16, $155 after. Call (626) 376-9751 ext. 203 or 205; or email info@imagen.org.

Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and Community Healing Network Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 19, 2009. National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Avenue, SW. Champagne reception with cultural offerings of music, dance, and live entertainment. Tickets: $175 before Jan. 9, $200 after.

South Carolina State Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 19, 2009. Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave. at 7th St. SW. SOLD OUT

See More Inaugural Events on Pages 1, 3 and 442 Texas State Society Black Tie and Boots Inaugural Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. The event will feature a "Texas Fair," with vendors showcasing Texan products, and live entertainment by Tracy Byrd, Jack Ingram, Asleep at the Wheel and more. Tickets: $200.

Virginia's Inaugural Black Tie and Blue Dominion Ball
Jan. 19, 2009. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, 14390 Air & Space Museum Pkwy. Chantilly, VA Tickets: $250 per person/ $400 per couple.

Africa Aspire Inauguration Night - A Celebration of Change for the World45
Jan. 20, 2009. Smithsonian Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Ave. NW. The celebration will include African cuisine, music and cultural presentations. Black Tie or traditional attire. Tickets: $500.

All American Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Westin Washington, 1400 M St. NW. Tickets: $250.

American Music Inaugural Balls
Jan. 20, 2009. Marriott Wardman Park, 2660 Woodley Rd. NW. Hosted by Dionne Warwick. Two events featuring a variety of entertainment legends and music icons. Tickets: $350-450.

State Society of Arizona Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009, Historical Society of Washington DC, 801 K St. NW Tickets: $175 per person / $300 per couple.

The Art of Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Warehouse Arts Complex, 7th St and New York Ave. NW. Artomatic and Playa del Fuego Inc. are sponsoring an evening of fun, fire, art and music. Tickets: $50.

Baltimore Washington Black McDonald's Operators Association's Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, The City Club at Franklin Square, 1300 I St. NW. To benefit Develop Young Minds, an organization that provides financial support to children with limited resources. Tickets: $200.

Be the Change Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. Sponsored by MTV and ServiceNation, the event will feature celebrities and will be televised live on MTV

Bytes & Books Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol Street, SE. Sponsored by The National Coalition for Technology in Education and Training

Calvert County Inauguration Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Calvert County Fairgrounds Banquet Hall, Route 4, exit Route 231, Barstow, Maryland. Sponsored by the Calvert County Democratic Club. Attire is semi-formal. Tickets: $40. Call 410-414-3660 or email Calvertdems@gmail.com.

Change Has Come Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Hilton Washington Embassy Row, 2015 Massachusetts Ave, NW. Sponsored by The Babyboomer Professionals. Tickets: $150 Must be purchased by December 15.

Concerned Black Men and Delta Sigma Theta Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Bobby Vans, 1201 New York Ave., NW. Proceeds will support Concerned Black Men youth projects (tutoring, mentoring, health education) and scholarship and service programs sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Tickets: $175, After Jan. 9 $200.

Corcoran Gallery of Art
Jan. 20, 2009. 500 Seventeenth Street NW. Hosted by LINK AMERICAS Foundation, The Alliance for Public Technology, The Children's Partnership, Education Development Center and the George Lucas Educational Foundation - Edutopia. Tickets: $1000.

Creative Coalition Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Harman Center for the Arts. SOLD OUT

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Fallen Soldiers, Inc. "Africa and International Friends Inaugural Ball"
Jan. 20, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. Featuring live performances by Patti Labelle, Raheem Devaughn, The O'Jays and many more, and a special honor presented to Aretha Franklin. Tickets: $250, $500, and $1000.

Florida State Society Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 20, 2009, National Museum of the American Indian, Independence Ave. between 3rd and 4th Sts. Proceeds will benefit all the American Red Cross Chapters throughout the State of Florida. Tickets: $200. (703) 905-9838 or email FL_Inaugural@hayespr.com.

George Washington University Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, Omni Shoreham Hotel - SOLD OUT

Hawaii State Society Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009 Mandarin Oriental Hotel – SOLD OUT

Health for All Blue Diamond Ball
January 20, 2008. National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Ave. NW between 10th and 12th Sts. Jackson Browne and Graham Nash performances. The Health for All Blue Diamond Ball supports Obama's vision of change and will secure a prominent place for health on the presidential and legislative agenda by gathering powerful constituencies that passionately believe that health care is a human right. $500 General Admission. $1,000 VIP Admission.

The Hill Ball
Jan. 20, 2009, Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE. Co-sponsored by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Swing dancing with an 11 piece band. Tickets: $85.

Human Rights Campaign Equity Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW. Live entertainment and appearances by Cyndi Lauper, Melissa Etheridge, Rufus Wainwright, Thelma Houston and others. Tickets: $375.

Inaugural Gala - A Formal Affair for Change
Jan. 20, 2009. The Ritz-Carlton, Tyson’s Corner, 1700 Tysons Boulevard McLean, VA. Gala features a cocktail reception, 3 course seated supper, live entertainment, insightful political discussion, and dancing until dawn. Tickets: $385. Attire: White Tie.

Inaugural DC Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Old Post Office Pavilion, 1110 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Event to benefit Metropolitan Police Boys & Girls Clubs. Entertainment features Washington DC's legendary Godfather of Go-Go Chuck Brown, DJ, dancing, and more. Tickets: $150-250.

Inaugural Peace Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Smithsonian National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE (next to Union Station) Sponsored by Busyboy and Poets and the National Postal Museum. Confirmed speakers and performers include Historian Howard Zinn, Comedian Dick Gregory, Mayor Adrian Fenty, Amy Goodman of Democracy Now, Katrina Vanden Heuvel of The Nation Magazine, Laura Flanders, Barbara Ehrenreich, Anthony Arnove, and many more. Tickets: $165

Inaugural Watch Party Jazz Brunch
Jan. 20, 2009. The Republic, 1355 U St. NW. Watch the inaugural festivities indoors at this gala event. Tickets: $75.

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Masonic Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Stars Bistro, 2120 P St. NW. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Masonic Foundation of the District of Columbia. Tickets: $65.

Minnesota Democratic Farmer Labor Party's Inaugural Celebration
Jan. 20, 2009. American Legion Hall, Kenneth H. Nast Post 8, 224 D Street SE. Tickets: $100.

New York State Society Pre-Inaugural Parade Brunch
Jan. 20, 2009. Willard Intercontinental Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets: $100-175.

Pennsylvania Society Inaugural Gala
Jan. 20, 2009. Ritz Carlton, 1150 22nd St. NW. - SOLD OUT

The President's Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Sponsored by the Maryland Inaugural Special Committee. The Washington Times Building, Arbor Ballroom and Conference Center, 3600 New York Ave. NE. Tickets: Before 12/31/08 - $200, After - $250 VIP Tickets: $300 (410) 521-7001. info@presidentsball.com

Prince George's County "Ancestor's Dream Inaugural Ball"
Jan. 20, 2009. Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD. Join Prince George's County officials and Maryland State representatives for a festive celebration. Tickets: $200 before Jan. 10, $250 after.

The Servant Forge Humanitarian Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 Union St., Alexandria, VA. The ball will benefit the Alexandria Mentoring Project and Youth Development and Employment Initiative, an art-based program serving pre-teen girls in Nairobi, Kenya. Tickets: $150.

Soccer Moms for Obama Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Chevy Chase Women’s Club, 7931 Connecticut Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD. Tickets: $60. Contact Ruth Brannon at rmbrannon@aol.com.

Tennessee State Society Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. The City Tavern Club, 3206 M St., NW. Black tie or military dress. Tickets: $130 per person, $250 per couple.

Unity in Service Inaugural Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Top of the ART Great Room/Starlit Terrace and WSV Art Gallery, 1100 16th Street, NW. The unofficial ball gives recognition to the men and women of our military with selected Service members serving as honorary co-hosts and a portion of each ticket benefits military families in need through the Armed Forces Relief Fund. Tickets: $90-175.

We the People Inauguration Gala Ball
Jan. 20, 2009. Hyatt Regency Washington, 400 New Jersey Ave. NW. The ball is an initiative by a group of volunteers who worked as part of the "grass roots movement" supporting Senator Barack Obama's campaign. Tickets: $295.

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Inauguration Websites

The District of Columbia's Inauguration website includes what you need to know if you are from out of town and are planning to visit for the festivities. For detailed information about planning for your trip, see the Getting There: Know Before You Go section of their website.

http://inauguration.dc.gov/index.asp

The Official Presidential Inaugural Committee website includes information on how to get tickets to events, how to become a volunteer for various events, and even how to get a temporary job working during the Inauguration.

The U.S. Secret Service website includes information on what you can expect on Inauguration Day and inludes a list of items that will be prohibited and allowed into the security areas.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies website provides information on the ceremonies, ticketing and related events.

The U.S. Armed Forces Inaugural Committee website informs visitors about the military ceremonial support for the Inauguration.

The Maryland MTA website provides information on special MARC Train and Commuter Bus services for events on the Martin Luther King Holiday and Inauguration Day.

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Help sometimes comes at a price or with a hidden agenda, but our helpful guides have neither. We hope that the information in our Leewood Times Guides give you starting points and focus. Our goal is to assist you in making informed decisions.

Here are the links to all the Leewood Times Guides…

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