Mayor-elect Kevin Johnson will take part tonight in a big public ceremony to mark his new job, but he won't officially take office until next month.
Thousands are expected to turn out for tonight's ceremonial swearing in at Memorial Auditorium. Election results are not expected to be certified until Dec. 2. He will be formally sworn in at that point.
The 6 p.m. event at Memorial Auditorium is slated to include choirs, fireworks and speeches. The unofficial swearing-in is set for 6:45 p.m.
The main auditorium is set up for 2,800 guests. Organizers are anticipating a full house, and have added overflow seating elsewhere where guests may watch activities via a large television screen.
Tickets to the event are free, but Johnson is asking attendees to donate time to local community groups.
"We just wanted to take the opportunity to use all the community support and enthusiasm that we found to really bring the community together and make it more than just a ceremonial swearing-in," said Laura Braden, a Johnson campaign volunteer.
Those attending are also asked to bring canned food for Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.
Johnson beat two-term Mayor Heather Fargo in the general election earlier this month.
