Presidential Inauguration Festivities FAQ

How the inaugural events come together.

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Who Picks Up the Tab for Official Inauguration Events?  - Supporters and private donors pay for the balls, the parade, giant TV screens on the National Mall for the swearing-in and portable toilets. Public money is used for security, such as Secret Service and Capitol Police services, and for items like bleacher and barricade construction.    (Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Who Coordinates the Inaugural Events? - The Presidential Inaugural Committee, whose members are chosen by the president-elect, coordinates the events that do not take place on the Capitol grounds, including the parade and balls. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies handles the public swearing-in ceremony at the Capitol and the luncheon for the president and vice president that follows. The Defense Department's Joint Task Force National Capital Region coordinates military marching bands, color guards, security and medical support.  (Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

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How Many Inaugural Balls Are Held? - It varies from president to president. Obama had 10 official balls in 2009 but will hold just two this year in acknowledgement of the still struggling economy. One will be the invitation-only Commander In Chief's Ball, started by former President George W. Bush, which honors military personnel. The second ball is open to the public, but it has already sold out. (Photos: Jim Young/REUTERS)

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