Obama’s inauguration is expected to cost $160 million, more than both Clinton’s and Bush Jr’s inaugurations combined. Anywhere from 1.5 to 4 million people are expected to attend, which makes Bush’s combined crowds of 300,000 puny by comparison.  Because of this mass amount of people coming, much of the cost of the inauguration has to do with airtight security measures.

Another unique feature of this inauguration is the donation maximum of $50,000 set by Obama’s inauguration committee.  Several prominent figures have donated the maximum, and Obama’s committee set this maximum in order to “change business as usual” in Washington.  However, DC is supplying $50 million of the cost, including the additional $15 million the city had to request from congress.  But what does this mean for Washington DC as a city besides footing part of the bill?

For one, hotels will be booked and busy, although an Internet search will tell you there are still places available.  The mall area will be mobbed with tourists and Obama enthusiasts.  Museums and shopping centers will be flooded with customers over the multi-day celebration, and restaurants and bars will enjoy extended curfews as well as multitudes of customers.  The inauguration will certainly help boost DC’s tourism industry, at least for the week, and set a new standard for just how big a deal an inauguration should be.

If you’re planning on going to DC, hopefully you already have plans.  All I can say is: Get there early and stay alert.  This type of celebration is unprecedented, even in a city used to big events.

Are you going to the inauguration? We’d love to hear about your experiences!