Bloomington businesses to celebrate inauguration

Tonight, many people in Bloomington and across the country will celebrate the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama.

Several Bloomington bars and restaurants will be host to events for those who won’t be attending private parties or want to go out to local festivities.

Nick’s English Hut will host a party Tuesday evening. Manager Bob Herbenstrait said the decision behind the party was in part because of Obama’s visit last year during Little 500.

“When Obama came in to sign the wall, he basically made our decision to have the party,” Herbenstrait said.

The event begins at 6 p.m., and Herbenstrait said he expects a large crowd. He said the signature will be on display upstairs in the “Hoosier Room.”

Nick’s will also be serving “Obama-boli” sandwiches and “Obama bomb” drinks for his inauguration.

At 7 p.m. Rachel’s Cafe will host their “Obama Inaugural Bash.” Owner Rachael Jones decided to have the event after the success of her election night party.

“Election night was really big,” Jones said. “We had a full house.”

Attendees are encouraged to wear “party attire.” After the inauguration, there will be free salsa and ballroom dancing lessons. Both events are free to attend.