Inauguration Updates: Map, Ticket Info, Wyclef Jean, and More

Designation Points Released for Ticket Holders

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) released information about the ticket and access plan for the big day. The official map of the Capitol grounds details ticket sections and the most convenient Metro entry points for those headed to their sections.

Tickets for the inaugural swearing-in ceremonies were released to Congress members today, and each member's office is responsible for distributing tickets to their constituents.

There are 240,000 color-coded tickets that were printed by the Government Printing Office and these tickets contain several security features to prohibit counterfeiting. Ticketed guests must enter the Capitol grounds through the entry point designated for their particular section. There will be numerous street closures, so ticket holders are advises to make careful plans and be sure to venture out early.

Security screening gates will open at 8 a.m., music is set to begin at 9 a.m., and the formal program will begin at 11:30 a.m. Those who are not through screening points by 11:30 a.m. may not be allowed to enter the Capitol grounds for the ceremony.

For more information on prohibited items, parking, even what to wear (the JCCIC is advising you to be ready for cold, wet weather), visit the JCCIC's Website.

Wyclef Jean to Perform at Green Ball

Event Emissary, producers of the Green Inaugural Ball presented by Discovery's Planet Green, announced today that former Fugees frontman Wyclef Jean will perform at the ball on Jan. 17 in the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium.

Wyclef Jean, who was an outspoken Obama supporter, performed at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Through his charities, the Yele Haiti Foundation and Together for Haiti, Wyclef supports projects that are making a difference in education, health, environment and community development.

According to Event Emissary, every facet of the Green Inaugural Ball has been designed to reduce the impact on the environment.  In addition, a 5% portion of each ticket sold is donated to one of the event's non-profit partners which include Environment America, One Degree Less,  Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Green Corps.

Russell Simmons to Host Hip Hop Inaugural Ball

Russell Simmons will host the Hip Hop Inaugural Ball Jan. 19 at the Harmon Center for the Arts in Washington, D.C. The event is black-tie and will feature live performances by the who's who of hip hop. Other hosts include music artists L.L. Cool J, T.I., and Young Jeezy.

Tickets can be purchased online starting at $500 to $2500 for VIP tickets. The night will include a general reception with an open bar, food, and music spun by DJ D Nice. There will also be an awards ceremony and an After Glow Party. All proceeds from this event will go to charity.

More Helpful Resources:

Accessibility at the Swearing In Ceremony

Washington D.C.'s Inauguration Site

Inauguration Events Calendar

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