My Plans for Barack Obama's Inauguration

Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States on Tuesday, January 20, 2009, and I've searched through Associated Content to build a travel itinerary to prepare for my attendance at this historic U.S. event. As I wrote in November 2008, "Securing Tickets for Barack Obama's Swearing-in Ceremony," I was optimistic I'd score a ticket to Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony and thanks to a New York friend, I did. More thanks to that friend, she secured lodging for us at a family member's house (the hotel I originally booked decided to change their deposit and cancelation policy so I opted for couch surfing out of principle). So when I arrive in D.C. what's the plan?

Preparing for My Trip to the Presidential Inauguration

Getting Around - This isn't my first trip to D.C. and I'm familiar with traffic congestion (I've experienced it during Fourth of July) but I know with anticipated attendance of more than 2 million visitors this will result in extreme traffic jams. Kofi Bofah offers tips on using the Washington, D.C. Metro to get around in the article, "Traveling to Barack Obama Presidential Inauguration? Use Washington, D.C. Metro Public Transportation for January 20 Inauguration."

Tips from a Washington, D.C., Local - Insider tips from locals is what I really appreciate when traveling and Theodore Godfrey shares a Washington, D.C., perspective only a resident could offer in the article, "Make the Most of Inauguration 2009: A Local's Guide to the One-Day Center of the Universe." Metro etiquette and a recommendation on a good place to eat following the presidential swearing-in ceremony are included.

Things that Make You Go Hmm - I love trivia and impressing people with my vast knowledge. Here's the secret, I have a decent memory and after reading Tracy McCoy's article, "Barack Obama Inauguration Day Information and Trivia," I'll be able to spew out bits of trivia to impress my friends.

Things to do in Washington, D.C., During Inauguration Weekend

In addition to attending Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony, I'll be attending a live recording of the Slate Political Gabfest podcast along with a Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century Party. But, there's room in my schedule for a few other activities.

Extra! Extra! - First thing I'll be doing in D.C. is heading over to the Newseum, an intriguing news museum as described in Carol Bengle Gilbert's article, "Newseum Displays History-Making 2008 Election News." I'm a citizen journalist, how could I travel to Washington, D.C., and not visit the Newseum?

Born in the U.S.A. - I heard a rumor Bruce Springsteen will be performing a free concert in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, January 18, and Julia Bodeeb confirmed his concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in the article, "Bruce Springsteen to Perform at Barack Obama's Inauguration."

Obama's Dining Pleasure - Various news outlets have reported Barack Obama stopped by Ben's Chili Bowl on Saturday. Can you guess where I'll be heading for at least one meal? Annie in Virginia gives the lowdown about the restaurant in the article, "Ben's Chili Bowl ..Just When You Thought You Had Experienced All of Washington, D.C. Has to Offer!"

Historic U.S. Event

I'm excited and grateful to be attending this historic U.S. event. I even went so far as to commission a set of jewelry made by Florida-based Carnivale Creations. Thanks to Associated Content and my friends, Barack Obama's presidential inauguration will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Resources:

WJLA ABC 7 News: "Obama, Fenty Visit Ben's Chili Bowl"

Washington Post, The Reliable Source: "Obama Visits Ben's Chili Bowl"