DC du'ers- do i need a ticket to the inauguration? can i have fun without

[mopinko]

invitations?
i have a plane ticket and a room. i am hoping that my president is going to have some great public events. and i would rather die than wear high heels. or a dress.
so, besides the fact that i am counting on some du get togethers, do i need to start fishing for invitations? or will i have plenty of fun?

[dawgmom]

1. You don't need an invitation

Invitations are needed if you want a seat in the seated area just in front of the Capitol -- but those seats are VERY limited and you usually have to know someone very high up in the campaign or in the government to get one. Contrary to popular belief, you are not to call your Congresscritter to get tickets.
http://www.mlive.com/us-politics/index.ssf/2008/11/want_inauguration_tickets_get.html

The vast majority of people attending the inaugural cermonies will stand on the grounds and all the area around the Capitol. You don't need a ticket to do that -- just a willingness to deal with very large crowds, and a strong bladder. Porta-potties can be limited. There are usually large screens placed at intervals, and loudspeakers broadcasting. My suggestion: if you're with a group, wear something bright on a sleeve or something so that you can spot one another. The crush of the crowd can be overwhelming, and it's easy to get separated, especially when the swearing-in ends and the President is driven down Constitution. The crowd moves very rapidly, trying to get a place to watch him pass by.

There are LOTS of free activities down on the Mall. The Clintons had a day with lots of bands and other entertainment.

Oh, and one other thing: Use Metro. You're not going to be able to drive or park anywhere near where things are happening.

[TZ]

2. Dawgmom has it correct.

That is my plan for the inauguration since tickets will be VERY hard to come by. BTW--I am trying to host a get together with DU'ers sometime that weekend...Of course I would LOVE to have you there!
If not, definitely we can hook up for the actual inagural!:hi:

[madinmaryland]

4. Are you going to invite us, at least after you learn to spell!!!!

[TZ]

5. PFFT!

Its Saturday night. I'm tired SPELLING NATSI!
Did I mention the 42 inch HD TV my mother just got?

[mopinko]

6. i'm there.

i arrive sunday and leave thursday, the (apparently) mandatory 4 day stay. my hotel is actually in alexandria.
it would be really great to meet you.

[GOPisEvil]

3. Well, if you want to go to any of the big inaugural galas, or parties, you will need an invite.

However, my understanding is there are many free things available. Watching the inaugural parade is free, but I would go early to get anyplace you can see the swearing-in.

[mopinko]

7. like i said, fancy clothes, no. parties, yes.

i am kinda fishing around to see what is what, since so many chicago folks are going. somebody might let me into some sort of get together.

[GoddessOfGuinness]

8. I recommend being prepared for heavy security...

Leave the pocket knife in your hotel room, etc. There'll probably bomb-sniffing dogs and bag checks all over the place. Have ID on hand. You'll have a great time; and it'll be good to know that everything is being done to keep our new first family and all those who want to celebrate the new administration safe. :D

[mopinko]

9. i figured that.

i didn't get to the party tuesday night, but i did get a look at the police presence. it was massive. and they shut down lakeshore drive, something that is just taboo.

[JVS]

10. Rock out at the tail-gate!

[mopinko]

11. tell me where, i'll be there.

[JVS]

12. I dunno. Maybe you'll have to organize one.