Its finally here, the Inauguration, which will potentially collapse D.C. If not from the weight of 4 million people on the sidewalks then it will certainly be the red line on the metro that shuts down.

There are some things to keep in mind and be aware of, in order to prep for the big day, read on:

1. If you take the metro or are planning on taking the metro and do not have a smart trip – purchase your fare cards now. Avoid the long lines, and the possibility of metro running out of cards.

2. Go to an ATM on Wednesday or Thursday – DC’s banks do not have enough cash for 2 million people – let alone 4 million.

3. Leave your car at work, or try not to move it after Friday. Streets will be blocked off and you will not be allowed to park. Cars will not be allowed in side of M street to the mall – and bus parking is from M street, NW to P Street NW.

4. Bags larger then 8×6x4 will not be allowed in side of the M street area, so pack light – this means no umbrellas even if its raining.

5. Bars will be open 24 hours to serve food. Alcohol will be stopped at 4am, and will probably resume between 8 and 9 am.

6. There will be metal detectors you will have to go through in order to gain access to the mall area (for general admission). again pack light.

7. If you live in DC, bring something that verifies that you live in the city (ie. drivers license, phone bill, piece of mail). It will be hard to access several parts of the city – and trust me you will want to get back into your house.

8. Cab service will be limited – since there are no cars allowed inside of M Street. However, there is bus service from Maryland into the city. There will be service in Virginia but they will only take you to the bridge to walk across.

9. Standing room on the mall will be limited – if all 4 million people go to the mall you should have approx. a 1 foot by 1 foot square to yourself – so be kind and shower

10. Good luck getting around and enjoy!