Speak Out: What Are You Doing on Inauguration Day?

If you're like me, loud noises, large crowds and traffic send you running the other way. Though I respect Inauguration Day as a historical part of American culture, you'll never find me at this event.

The stress of purchasing tickets, dealing with traffic and a large group of people encourages me to enjoy this event from my living room or find something more relaxing to do instead. On top of that, Jan. 21 is also Martin Luther King Day, guaranteeing a separate crowd heading in the direction of his monument.

Though Inauguration Day will be the talk of the town, I'm sure I'm not alone in trying to avoid the chaos.

Personally, I'd prefer hanging out at Grounded Coffee or grabbing lunch with friends at King Street Blues. And if everyone else is going to D.C., it's probably a good time to get in a little shopping. Without the hassle, maybe you'll actually get the opportunity to browse your favorite stores.

So, are you going to participate in the Inauguration Day events or will you politely decline? If you're not going, what are you doing instead? Share ideas in the comment section below.

For more information on this year's inauguration, check out Patch's 2013 Presidential Inauguration Guide.