If you’re longing to attend an inaugural ball this year but don’t see yourself being able to make it up to Washington, DC, don’t fret – the Walton County Democratic Party has got you covered.

The Walton County Dems will be holding their own inaugural ball on Saturday, Jan. 17 at the A.P. Henderson Building on East High Tower Trail in Social Circle. The ball begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door.

Cynthia Watkins, an event organizer of the inaugural ball, said this is the first event that the Walton County Democratic Party has ever hosted.

"Because of President-elect Obama and being the first African-American president, we thought that a celebration would enhance the [occasion]," Watkins said.

The event is a black-tie affair so come dressed in your finest. The ball will feature a dinner provided by the Walton County Democrats and a big dance band from the Social Circle area that will play a variety of music.

"We’re going to have good food and a great band," Watkins said.

Watkins said event organizers are encouraging everybody to attend – Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike.

"We’re inviting any and everyone to come out and attend," she said.

The ball will also include a program tracing the beginning of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign, through the tumultuous primary season and concluding with his historic win in November. The theme of the ball is "Yes, We Can" and "A Journey to Change" said Watkins.

"It’s elegant and it’s as close as can be. It’s for everybody," said Watkins of the reasons why residents in Newton County should attend.

For more information about the ball or to purchase tickets contact Watkins at (770) 267-8758 or Walton County Democratic Party Chairperson Ollie James at (404) 464-3860.