Local Presidental Inauguration Events in Minneapolis and St. Paul

Want to celebrate the Inauguration of new President Barack Obama, but can't or don't want to make the trip to Washington? I understand, I'd love to go but can you imagine how crazy it's going to be in the capital? So for most of us, we'll be staying home and celebrating locally. Here's what's happening in Minneapolis and St. Paul on Inauguration day, Tuesday 20 January.

Live Screening of the Inauguration at the Riverview Theatre

The classic Minneapolis movie theater is showing the Presidential inauguration ceremonies live on Tuesday January 20. Doors open at 9.30 a.m. until approximatly 12 noon. The event is free and open to all.

Riverview Theatre, 3800 42nd South Avenue, Minneapolis.

The Main Street Inaugural Ball, the Hopkins Center for the Arts

Or perhaps you'd like something more grand? Out in the western suburb of Hopkins, you can attend a gala evening at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, with guest speakers, music, food, and highlights from the inauguration ceremony. Tickets are needed for this event, but children under 10 are free.

The Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins.

Inauguration Celebration at Epic

A glamorous evening celebration at Epic nightclub in Minneapolis with special guests and Obama's speech re-broadcast at 8 p.m. on 35 televisions. Attendees are requested to "dress to impress". There's an admission charge, and advance tickets are available at Epic's website.

Epic, 110 North Fifth Street, Minneapolis.

The Inaugural Inauguration Night, Lee's Liquor Lounge

A free event for over 21's at Lee's with live music, podcast, and the inauguration shown on their big television.

Lee's Liquor Lounge, 101 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis

Kids Inauguration Party, Borders in St. Paul

The St. Paul Borders, on University Avenue, hosts a Inaguration party for children on the Saturday before. The store will be celebrating America, democracy, and new beginnings with a scavenger hunt, games, art activities, and an official oath ceremony. The program starts at 2 p.m. and events are free.

Borders, 1390 West University Avenue, St. Paul.

We'll have a new President on January 20, but do you think Minnesota will have a Senator by then? As the Norm Coleman-Al Franken battle drags on and on, I'm not holding my breath....