So I’m dying to hear your stories. I’ve heard from a number of friends who had tickets to the inauguration but because of security glitches they weren’t able to get in. For the folks that went down – tell me – what was it like? How long did it take to get in and out? Anyone watch the parade?

I decided to watch the inauguration at the Red Derby and it was fantastic. It was projected on the wall and there were enough folks there to have a good community feel along with clapping, laughing, and cheering. Yet, it wasn’t so crowded that you couldn’t get food or drinks. I highly recommend this option four years from now.

Thanks to a reader for sending the above photo. Remember to send your photos to [email protected] or tag them in flickr with popobamaweekcontest.

So what was your favorite part of the festivities?


Not sure how many folks made it to the concert. I originally intended to go down to the concert at 10:00 am but after closing the previous evening at Ben’s Next Door at 4:00 am that didn’t happen. So a few friends and I decided to cruise down at 1:30 and see if we could still get a spot. Amazingly we did! And I’m so glad we went. It was insanely crowded but filled with good vibes and of course good music. My favorite was U2 though I really enjoyed Jamie Foxx’s speech as well.  And let me say I never thought I’d be rocking out to Garth Brooks singing Shout…

For those who went who was your favorite performer? Anyone have any problems getting in?


Thanks to a reader for sending. Though, I’m sensing a trend here. The Festivus Kiosk was super popular. Now you can post a message to Obama. My guess is that if you hold out for a few more weeks you’ll be able to send a message to God or maybe Jimi Hendrix? Who would you like to send a message to? I think it would be a far more interesting read if they solicited messages to President Bush…



photo by Eddie Codel

Ok, I’ll admit it – I’ve got inauguration fever. So while this is a predictable question – I feel it still must be asked. What are you most looking forward to? I’ve got to be honest, since I was unable to get Beastie Boys tickets, I’m most looking forward to the concert with U2, Bruce Springsteen and others. Of course I’m looking forward to the inauguration itself but the prospect of “seeing” the Boss and U2 even if only briefly is beyond cool to me.

A side question – do you think everything’s gonna go smoothly or will the projected 2 million visitors be too much to handle?


Well, lots of people have been asking about this and fortunately lots of folks have been emailing some options. So, in no particular order, here are some emails I’ve received:

OBAMA WONDERAMA

STAR-STUDDED BURLESQUE AND SIDESHOW INAUGURAL BALL

Washington, DC — The Warehouse presents OBAMA WONDERAMA – an Inauguration celebration of star-studded burlesque and Coney Island-style sideshow on Sunday, January 18, 2009 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at The Warehouse Arts Complex to celebrate the victory and historic inauguration of Barack Obama.

OBAMA WONDERAMA welcomes guests from near and far with an evening of classic and modern day burlesque, sideshow, illusion, DJ sets, and drink specials. OBAMA WONDERAMA features extraordinary entertainers including: Dr. Lucky (burlesque’s “Lucille Ball” and only PhD), Clams Casino (Miss Exotic World 2008 Most Humorous and Most Innovative), Swami Yomahmi (host of the Cheeky Monkey Sideshow) along with L’il Dutch (producer of Dutch Oven Burlesque). This VIP line-up of variety, featuring 15 performers, also includes hypnotic belly dancing, and master hula hooping with raffle prizes from District restaurants, artists and bars.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and performances begin at 9 p.m. Guests may enjoy the Warehouse bar and DJ sets between entertainment. Advance tickets available for $25 in advance, $30 at the door – limited theater seating available. For more information or performer interviews, please contact The Warehouse Theater.

Warehouse Theater
1021 7th St. NW
Washington, DC 20001
202 783 3933
Tickets – http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/52506 More options after the jump (including a free event). (more…)