PRESS RELEASE from the Presidential Inaugural Committee

Presidential Inaugural Committee Announces First Wave of Organizations to Perform in 56th Inaugural

Monday, December 8, 2008

Below is a list of organizations that have accepted an invitation to march in the historic parade following President-elect Obama’s swearing in on January 20th, 2009.  Invitations are being made and accepted as part of an ongoing process, so please check back for rolling additions to this list.


Ed. Note: The PIC issued individual press releases on these announcements, which provided some details:

Organizations wishing to participate in the parade submitted an application to the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee (AFIC), which then assisted the Presidential Inaugural Committee in reviewing all of the groups' applications.  All told, 1,382 organizations applied to participate, setting a new standard for interest in marching in the parade.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee was assisted in its selection process by a group of experienced military musicians, who utilized their expertise to help assess the presentation skills of marching bands, musical acts and drill teams.

All participants in the Inaugural Parade are responsible for paying for their own lodging and transportation to and from Washington, D.C.  The Committee has been working closely with area governments and civic organizations to facilitate access to affordable accommodations and would like to encourage citizens from across the country to reach out and help the groups raise the necessary resources to participate in this historic event.