I used to enjoy working in downtown Sacramento, because the candidates would usually speak from the steps of the state capitol building. There were also some good rallies there. I got to sing for a labor rally once, doing a solo on the capitol steps in front of a pretty large audience. I also went to a wonderful peace rally there, before we invaded Iraq. The crowds were big, but manageable. Oftentimes, I'd run into people I hadn't seen for years. And it was a thrill to hear well-known people in person. Sure, it would have been easier to see them on television, but there's something wonderful about the energy of an enthusiastic crowd.
Would I go to the inaugural? I'm not so sure of that - I think the crowds will be overwhelming, and there's a good chance a lot of the people there will be cold, miserable, and unable to see anything.
That's another advantage Sacramento has - the weather.
-Joe-