The DC Traveler

January 20, 2009 is the date that President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden will take their oaths of office. Obama will become the 44th President of the United States, on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building.

Expect 250,000 people that have reserved tickets to show up for the event, plus at least another million more to arrive without tickets.  So without tickets, you will be a long distance (most likely several 100 yards away) from the inauguration ceremony, and probably not able to see anything, other than large TV monitors placed all over the Mall.  But you can still share in the experience.

The last inauguration I attended, (without tickets), the closest I could get to the steps of the Capitol, was just under a mile away, just off of 7th Street.  I suspect that might be considered a great location this time.

Inaugural events start on Thursday, January 15, so not just the National Mall area will be effected.  Area hotels, restaurants, businesses, government offices in the area will be impacted, and local transportation will be strained to capacity.

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If you are attending the ceremony, here’s my ten tips to make your inaugural viewing more enjoyable.

1. Arrive very early if you expect to get anywhere near the Capitol Building, as the crowds will be huge.
2. Dress warmly and plan for snow or rain as the average Washington, DC temperatures range from the mid-20s the low-40s. 
3. While food vendors will be out in force, bring along lunch or snacks, but not a cooler, alcohol or a thermos.
4. Bring a pair of binoculars, so you can attempt to see something.
5. Wear warm and comfortable shoes as you may be doing a lot of walking, standing, sitting and waiting in line. Bring a blanket and plastic tarp (in case the ground is wet), to sit on.
6. Take Metro….Take Metro…Take Metro!  Don’t even try to drive anywhere near the National Mall the day of the inauguration. 
7. Expect lots of closed streets, blocked traffic, long lines, and heavy security.  So bring your best “patient” attitude.
8. Remember to bring an extra battery for your camera and video camera, so you can record this historic event.
9. As the date gets closer, check the inauguration website to see what items are prohibited, so you are not turned away at the gate.
10. Watch the entire proceeding on television at home, where it’s nice and warm.  You can still be part of history, avoid the crowds, traffic and cold.

BONUS TIP — Make sure to check the most recent updated list of items that can not be brought to the inauguration.

Images - gloves Flickr - SmarTrip card - personal collection ©2008, Jon Rochetti, Obama - Obama-Biden Transition project ___________________________________________________