Inauguration Party

Just because you don't have a ticket to an Inaugural Ball does not mean you can't celebrate in style. Besides, do you really want to be out there on the mall not only freezing, but sharing a mere 50,000 portatoilets with millions of people? We didn't think so. You want to be home glued to the television. So, we've got a few ideas to help you quickly and easily put together a festive celebration.

INVITATION TYPE

• Phone or Text Message – you need to work quickly to gather the gang for tonight.

DECORATIONS

• This day is all about American pride, so go nuts with flags, buttons, noisemakers, confetti and more. If you have leftover 4^th of July decorations now is the perfect opportunity to reuse them.
• Set out red, white, and blue plates, napkins, utensils, and other serve ware.
• Obama swag and other commemorative merchandise. You can go for the official goods, but we are particularly fond of the Obama Bobble-Head.

FOOD AND DRINK MENU

Since it's Obama's day, "yes we can" prepare a menu that will reflect some of his favorite foods.

• Appetizer: Chips and Guacamole

  This recipe, as published by Star Chefs.com, is from one of Obama's favorite Chicago restaurants, Topolobampo.

• Entrée: Obama's Chili

  Obama's own recipe, as reported by Good Morning America.

• Dessert: Pumpkin Pie

  Allegedly Obama does not have much of a sweet tooth, but according to his biography page, he likes this dessert.

• Cocktail: Red White and Blue Shooter

  Celebrate a little bit of patriotism with this shot recipe from About.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

• At minimum, all you need is a television tuned to your favorite broadcast news or news channel for inauguration festivities.
• Get interactive with more friends outside your event – log onto CNN.com and Facebook to watch together and chat it up.
• Play "Hail to the Chief."

GAMES

• Create a drinking game out of what you see. For example, anytime a newscaster talks about Michelle Obama's fashion sense, take a drink.
• Make a trivia game using quick facts about Obama.

ATTIRE

• Looking back on this historic day, you'll want to see pics of yourself and say, "Damn, I looked GOOD." So, dress up! Ladies, put on that gorgeous dress you've been saving for a special occasion and guys, go for that suit that makes you look oh-so-sharp.
• Not in the mood for dress up? Opt for a political t-shirt instead. Folks from our staff will be wearing their Bush's Last Day t-shirts while they're still relevant.

LAST MINUTE TIPS

Check out the government's official site for more information (even recipes!) on the Presidential Inauguration. And as always, remember to bring your camera!