Inauguration Events Schedule 2009, Updates and Must-See TV

As an estimated 2 million people prepare to attend the inauguration events slated for Inauguration 2009, tens of millions of Americans will follow the historic 56^th presidential inaugural of President-elect Barack Obama - via TV coverage, online videos and podcasts. An army of inauguration day programming is available to view these inaugural concerts, balls and historic events.

Given that some TV coverage is limited to cable subscribers, millions of interested viewers may opt for online alternatives to supplement conventional programming. Highlights of Inauguration 2009 events scheduled from January 18 to 21, 2009 include:

Inauguration 2009 Opening Celebration - January 18, 2009

To be held at the Lincoln Memorial, the much anticipated presidential inaugural Opening Celebration, "We Are One", hosts a compendium of stars and musical talent. Aired commercial-free by HBO, the premium cable service will utilize an open signal -- allowing most anyone with cable or satellite service to watch the festivities. (7:00-9:00 p.m. EST on HBO)

A sampling of performers includes Beyonce, Bono, Sheryl Crow, Usher Raymond IV, Shakira, James Taylor, will.i.am and Stevie Wonder - among several others both listed and awaiting confirmation.

Additionally, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah, Denzel Washington and Jamie Foxx are to read historical passages, according to the Presidential Inaugural Committee (PIC), where a full itinerary and Inauguration 2009 updates can be found.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - January 19, 2009

CNN boasts live coverage of President-elect Obama and Vice-president elect Biden as they urge supporters to participate in community service and honor Dr. King's legacy; A presentation by Jazz at Lincoln Center and The Rockefeller Foundation entitled, "A Celebration of America," is to be held at the Kennedy Center. Special guest stars will be announced for this inauguration event both at CNN and PIC.

Additionally, USAservice.org enables citizens to find and organize related inaugural events. Thus far, about 5,000 events have been organized across the U.S.

Kids Inaugural

According to a PIC press release, evening brings together the Obama and Biden families as they host a free "Kids' Inaugural" concert which pays tribute to military families. A sampling of performers includes: The Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus and Bow Wow.

The "Kids' Inaugural: We Are The Future," airs on the Disney Channel (8:00 - 9:30 p.m. EST) as well as on Disney Radio.

Inauguration Day 2009 Schedule - January 20th, 2009

Inauguration Day 2009 commences at 10 a.m. EST, anterior the U.S. Capitol, as follows:

Music, Call to Order by Senator Dianne Feinstien, Invocation by Dr. Rick Warren, Music by Aretha Franklin.

Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. will be sworn into office, followed by a musical selection. President-elect Barack H. Obama will then take the Oath of Office.

Inauguration Day 2009 proceeds with the Inaugural Address, poem by Elizabeth Alaxender, Benediction, and the National Anthem. Outgoing President George W. Bush will attend a departure ceremony and the 56th Inaugural Parade will commence, according to changes.gov.

Inaugural Balls

Later, the Presidential Inaugural Committee will host 10 Inaugural Balls including, "The Neighborhood Ball: An inauguration Celebration" -- to be attended by the newly-elected President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. Viewers can tune into ABC (8:00-10:00 p.m. EST) or view coverage online at the network's website.

Prayer Service - January 21, 2009

Both newly-elected President Obama and Vice President Biden will participate in a prayer service.

Tips on Following Inauguration Events, Updates, Concerts, Inauguration Day

To get the most out of Inauguration 2009 and plan your inauguration schedule of programming, stay tuned to the Presidential Inauguration Committee and CNN Q and A inaugural websites, ABC, HBO and Disney as applies (see Sources). Look to your programming guide in advance but be mindful of updates and schedule changes. Also, consider programming from PBS and C-Span to avoid commentaries.

Sources

Presidential Inauguration Committee

http://www.pic2009.org/pressroom/

Q & A Presidential inauguration 2009, CNN

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/11/inauguration.activities/

Changes.gov

MSNBC Inauguration Day 2009 TV Schedule

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28623524/