While throngs of loyal Democrats make their way to the nation's capital for next month's inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, party officials here at home are planning a bash of their own to mark the occasion.

State Democrats announced details yesterday of the Jan. 20 “;Aloha Inaugural Ball at the Royal Hawaiian.”;

The event is billed as a fundraiser for the Democratic Party of Hawaii, with tickets selling for $250 per person, or $1,000 each for VIP tickets, which include table service and prime seating.

“;We're very happy that we're going to be able to accommodate those hundreds and maybe thousands of people who want to commemorate the swearing-in of Barack Obama but are unable to make the trip to Washington, D.C.,”; state party Chairman Brian Schatz said at a news conference.

The event is scheduled from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and marks the grand reopening of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, which has been closed since June 1 for renovations.

Capacity for the event is about 1,000 people, Schatz said, and space will be allotted as payment is received by the party.

“;I think it's difficult to overestimate the enthusiasm for celebrating Barack Obama,”; Schatz said. “;Every time we try to get a sense of the enthusiasm, our expectations are exceeded.

“;We're hopeful that the event will sell out.”;

Because of the time difference, Schatz said organizers will try to find some way to connect partygoers to the events that happened hours earlier, adding that they also are working on getting Obama to deliver a videotaped message to the ball.

Entertainment is being coordinated by Emme Tomimbang, who said details on performers would be announced as they become available.

She said the guest list would include “;national”; acts and celebrities.

The dress code is described as “;elegant aloha”; and can include anything from dressy aloha attire to black-tie formal wear.