Inaugural No-Nos: Strollers, Coolers, Backpacks and More

Inaugural No-Nos: Strollers, Coolers, Backpacks and More
Washington Post
The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies has posted on its Web site a number of tips to keep in mind for those planning on attending the Jan. 20 swearing-in ceremony and parade. Among the list of items banned from the festivities are baby strollers, coolers, backpacks, thermoses, umbrellas and signs. Source for list.
What to Wear
There is no official dress code for the swearing-in ceremonies.
It is typically cold on Inauguration Day—normally 37°F—and often wet. Expect to be outside for more than three hours, to stand in line, and to walk for long periods of time. Dress in layers and wear a winter coat. Consider wearing comfortable shoes, gloves, a hat and a scarf, and bringing a blanket.
In the event of rain, umbrellas will not be permitted within the security perimeter. It is recommended that attendees bring ponchos or rain coats.
Extra consideration should be taken when planning to bring infants, young children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system.

Weather
The Swearing-in Ceremony is an outdoor event held on the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Inauguration day is typically cold—normally 37° F at noon—and occasionally wet.
Extra consideration should be taken when planning to bring infants, young children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system. A vast majority of attendees will be in standing room sections and should be prepared to be on their feet for several hours.
Attendees should check the local weather forecast for Inauguration Day and plan accordingly.
In the event of rain, umbrellas will not be permitted within the security perimeter. It is recommended that attendees bring ponchos or rain coats.

Children
There are no childcare facilities provided to attendees. Due to increased security and space constraints, strollers are not permitted on the Capitol grounds.

Restrooms
Outdoor, portable restrooms are located throughout the U.S. Capitol grounds.

Security
All ticket holders are required to pass through security screening, including handbag inspection.

Food and Drink
Food, beverages, and other amenities are not available within the ceremony perimeter. Do not bring any food item larger than a small snack. Thermoses are prohibited.

Traffic
Large crowds are expected for the Swearing-in ceremonies, the Inaugural parade, and other festivities. Expect heavy traffic and road closings. Use the Metro.

Parking
No parking will be available on Capitol Hill. Public parking in Washington, D.C. will be extremely limited. If you are traveling by car from outside the city, park in a lot near a Metro station and take Metro into Washington. Expect heavy traffic and road closures.

Prohibited Items
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:
Firearms and ammunition (either real or simulated)
Explosives of any kind (including fireworks)
Knives, blades, or sharp objects (of any length)
Mace and/or pepper spray
Sticks or poles
Pockets or hand tools, such as “Leatherman”
Packages
Backpacks
Large bags
Duffel bags
Suitcases
Thermoses
Coolers
Strollers
Umbrellas
Laser pointers
Signs
Posters
Animals (other than service animals)
Alcoholic beverages
Other items that may pose a threat to the security of the event as determined by and at the discretion of the security screeners

Wild Thing’s comment……..
Here are some other items they forgot to mention that won’t be bringing. ….. brains, decency, patriotism, a paycheck.
Look at the weapons in the list. I guess with the massive crowd they are expecting they need to list all that stuff.