Perdue to be sworn in Saturday

FESTIVITIES OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

On Saturday, Beverly Perdue will be sworn in as the state's first female governor. The pomp, parades and pledges are free and open to the public.

THE SCHEDULE

10 A.M. The 440th Army National Guard Band performs a pre-inaugural concert.

10:30 A.M. Swearing-in ceremony featuring a reading by Andy Griffith.

12:30 P.M. Inaugural parade begins. Governor's viewing stand is on the south side of the Capitol.

2:30 TO 5:30 P.M. N.C. Executive Mansion Open House, 200 N. Blount St.

IF YOU GO

Prepare for heavy traffic, if you plan to come to downtown Raleigh. Arrive early. Parking in designated state lots is free. Organizers say there will be plenty of seating in front of the State Library/Archives and History Building, 109 E. Jones St., where Perdue and other elected officials will take the oath of office. Organizers are advising everyone to be in their seats when the event starts at 10 a.m.

WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE PARTIES?

GOVERNOR-ELECT'S RECEPTION

When: Tonight, 6 to 7:30

Where: Raleigh Convention Center Grand Ballroom

Cost: $150, but the event is sold out.

Who's playing: Harpist Laura S. Byrne, accompanied by Mary E. Boone, flutist

Who'll be there: Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue, of course, and about 1,000 others

GALA PRESENTATION

When: Tonight, 8 to 9

Where: Raleigh Convention Center Exhibition Hall

Cost: $200 a person, includes ticket to the Inaugural Ball

Who's playing: Eric Church, Vienna Teng, Branford Marsalis, Thomas Pope, Jazz Patriots and Minutemen

Who'll be there: Since this is the formal introduction of the governor and the Council of State, look for up to 3,000 people.

INAUGURAL BALL

When: Tonight, 9 to midnight

Where: Raleigh Convention Center

Cost: $125 a person

Who's on stage: Fantasy, Chatham County Line, Tres Chicas and The Rick McClanahan Trio

Who'll be there: Between 3,000 and 5,000 politicians, political watchers, members of the Junior League of Raleigh and leaders from businesses, community groups and nonprofit organizations.

IF YOU GO

For more information or tickets, go to ncgovernorsball.org.