President-elect Barack Obama will replace outgoing President George W. Bush in January 2009. Here are details about the swearing-in ceremony and several things Inauguration attendees should keep in mind as they prepare for a day of celebration.
Date & Time of Obama’s Presidential Inauguration Swearing-In Ceremony
When is Barack Obama’s swearing-in ceremony? It will take place at noon on January 20, 2009. The ceremony will be conducted outdoors on the west front lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
What to Expect on Inauguration Day 2009: Food, Security, Restrooms, Prohibited Items
The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) provides tips on their website. Here are some things attendees can expect on Inauguration Day 2009:
- Limited vehicle access around the Capitol. Police will be there to direct traffic.
- Little or no parking inside the city. Park somewhere along the Metro route and ride into D.C.
- Ticket holders should use the Metro and enter at the gate indicated on their tickets.
- Besides the obvious prohibited items like guns and knives, visitors should not bring food larger than a small snack, large bags, duffel bags, thermoses, suitcases, coolers, umbrellas, laser pointers, signs, posters, animals (other than service animals), fireworks, or alcoholic beverages.
- Strollers will not be permitted due to space constraints.
- Bring a raincoat, as it may be a cold and rainy day, and umbrellas are on the prohibited item list.
- Cameras will be permitted, but tripods and camera bags will not.
- Expect cold weather. According to the JCCIC, the temperature may be 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit around noon.
- Expect to have to stand up for long stretches of time, even hours.
- Food and beverages will not be available for purchase within the ceremony perimeter.
- Emergency medical teams will be on call.
- Portable restrooms will be provided outdoors.
- Expect several security checks, including handbag inspections.
Barack Obama Inauguration Tickets: When Are They Available? How Can You Get One?
According to the JCCIC website, Inauguration tickets can only be obtained through members of Congress and from the President-elect or Vice President-elect. They will not be available until the week before the Inauguration and will require valid ID to pick up in person.
Based on this information, presumably the only way to get a ticket is to contact a U.S. representative or senator. Per the JCCIC, no websites or ticket outlets have been authorized to sell tickets.
Those preparing a trip to the capital on January 20, 2009 should keep in mind the tips above. Certain everyday items like strollers and umbrellas will not be allowed in gated areas. Guests are allowed to arrive as early as 9 a.m., and music will begin at 10 a.m.
All citizens, whether or not they are attending the Inauguration Day 2009 ceremony in person, can share in the festivities and commemorate the occasion with Barack Obama Inauguration memorabilia such as photos, coins, jewelry, buttons, and t-shirts.
Resources:
Presidential Inaugural Committee website (pic2009.gov)
Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) website
Armed Forces Inaugural Committee website
Lena Gott - Lena Gott is a Certified Public Accountant who gives practical financial advice to her readers.
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