Inauguration Eve on U St.

On the night before Inauguration, we got bundled up and headed out to U Street to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Tons of people were out, walking up and down the street, waiting in line for Ben's Chili Bowl, just reveling in the moment. Vendors were selling any kind of Obama gear you can imagine. On the eve of history, U Street was hopping more than usual, and it was the place to be.

This guy carved OBAMA in red, white and blue ice blocks and set them up in front of Ben's Chili Bowl. The ice was flying all over the place as folks stopped to watch.

The now well-known mural of Obama on a wall at 14th and U Streets.

The crowd gathers around a drum circle at 14th and U Streets. The international, all-women drum troupe Batala Washington was kicking Brazilian beats while people grooved and celebrated the upcoming inauguration.

Tommy was trying to get a look at the lady drummers drumming, but had to settle for listening to the beat.

We all enjoyed the show for a while before heading over to Love Cafe for dessert.

Inside Love Cafe, ordering cake under the American flag.

On the way home, the guy had gotten around to carving the M.

EZ is all smiles, thinking about braving the cold weather the following day to be among the crowd on the National Mall as Obama takes the oath.