Washington, Dec. 5: For the first time in American history, the entire Mall in Washington will be open to the public for the inauguration of Barack Obama, the country’s first African-American President.

Officials have been in talks for weeks about opening the Mall so that more people can be part of the historic day.

The Presidential Inauguration Committee, which is in charge of handling inaugural festivities, has repeatedly said it wants to open the event to as many people as possible.

“This will be an inauguration for all Americans," Politico quoted Washington Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, as saying in a statement.

In the past, parade participants have assembled on the Mall between Seventh and 14th streets NW. Now they will gather at the Ellipse before setting off on their march.

During previous inaugurations, Fourth Street NW bound the viewing area for the swearing-in for ticket-holders and by Seventh Street NW for the general public.

Organizers have printed 240,000 tickets for the event, to be distributed by members of Congress and the Presidential Inaugural Committee. (ANI)