The 57th Presidential Inauguration will kick off with a National Day of Service, a tradition started by the Obamas at the President’s first inauguration in 2009. President Obama will ask Americans across the country to organize and participate in service projects in their communities on Saturday, January 19th to honor our shared values and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. On this day, President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Biden, Dr. Jill Biden, and members of the President’s Cabinet will participate in service projects in the Washington, D.C. area.
If you plan on attending any of the public events, please be prepared to be outside for a long period of time and dress warmly. A limited amount of food and beverage vendors may be available, but attendees are encouraged to bring snacks and beverages in order to stay healthy and hydrated.
The following items are prohibited and will not be allowed through any security checkpoints: aerosols, animals (guide dogs will be allowed), backpacks, bags larger than 6” x 4” x 8”, balloons, bicycles, coolers, glass or thermal containers, horns, laser pointers, mace/pepper spray, packages, structures, sign supports, weapons, and any additional items deemed a safety hazard by security.
During the inauguration, much of the National Mall and surrounding areas will be closed to vehicle traffic. You can get the latest on D.C. public transportation by visiting the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s website at www.wmata.com or by following @wmata on Twitter.