To mark the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, NDI and the Presidential Inaugural Committee hosted a luncheon Jan. 20 for more than 150 Washington-based ambassadors at Blair House, the guest quarters for visiting heads of state located across the street from the White House.

Taking place just a few hours after Barack Obama, then the President-elect, and his family had moved out of the historic mansion, the luncheon gave the diplomats an opportunity to exchange views. After the luncheon, ambassadors moved outside to view the inaugural parade as it made its way down Pennsylvania Avenue. They were treated to a firsthand glimpse of the new President and Mrs. Obama, who choose to walk that portion of the parade route.

Members of the diplomatic corps traditionally attend a number of special inaugural events, including the swearing in ceremony at the Capitol. The Blair House event has become a tradition. NDI and the Inaugural Committee co-hosted a similar gathering in 1993 on the occasion of President Bill Clinton's first inauguration.

Location:
Blair House, Washington, D.C.

Pictured above: Guests at the Blair House reception, watching a segment of the Inauguration Day Parade on Pennsylvania Avenue.

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Published on Jan. 26, 2009