As I sit here in northern Virginia contemplating the chaotic logistical Hell On Earth just a few miles away that will occur in my hometown, Washington, DC, on inauguration day and because we, the unwashed masses of northern Virginia have been virtually banned from entering the city that day, I have decided to host an inaugural day party. Actually we’re not exactly banned however there are all sorts of the restrictions on all movement out of northern Virginia into the city. On that day all access via 395/495 (for those that aren’t familiar with this area those are the local highways/interstates in and out of northern Virginia) will be closed except for emergency vehicles, taxis, buses, limos, etc. No one can actually drive from northern Virginia to DC that day. Of course we can use Metro, but several weeks ago locals were already warned by WMATA, our public transportation system, that they expected to be overwhelmed and were panicked about accommodating the millions of visitors. After doing my own informal poll of those here, most are choosing to avoid the city on inauguration day.
Given all the craziness expected, I’ve decided to stay home and have a get together for the inaugural. I will probably have only few folks over, but I’m already stressing about the menu. I’ve considered all the usual suspects: fajitas, guacamole, salsa, varous dips and chips, etc., etc., etc. I’m asking for your help in this endeavor; not just food but liquid refreshments as well.
Metropolitan-DC locals are you staying home? If so, what’s on your inaugural table? And for everyone else, what are your plans? BTW, my entertainment parameters will be for a casual, help yourself type affair, easy to prepare and hold, not too expensive, but would like something different/unusual from standard party fare and must definitely maximize my time interacting with guests and watching the day’s unfolding events.
Any and all suggestions are welcome.
Thanks.
