CHARLOTTE, NC -- The Democratic National Convention officially kicks off Tuesday in Charlotte, North Carolina. It's being heralded as the most open and accessible convention in history. In fact, there are many events that are free and open to the public.
Democratic National Convention organizers launched “CarolinaFest 2012” as a family friendly, Labor Day holiday celebration to kick off the week.
The Democratic National Convention is the first modern political convention to offer this much access. Yesterday, Uptown Charlotte was bustling as thousands of people took part in the Labor Day celebration, CarolinaFest.
About 35,000 visitors will be traveling to Charlotte to attend the convention. The free and open events, like the one Monday, are designed to encourage more participation from the public. There were a lot of fun activities for the children and a lot of support for the president that could be seen on participants and vendor displays.
One delegate from California remarked that this week's convention doesn't feel exclusive. He says the coolest thing he's seen is the diversity from the sea of people from all walks of life who made their way to Charlotte.
"Especially if the city of Charlotte opens up the city for us, I think they should be included in everything that the delegation the convention has to offer. I definitely feel that it is important especially if we're going to take over the city like this. It is important for them to be included as well," said California delegate, Brent Page.
The caucuses and President Obama's acceptance speech are open to the public. The President and Vice President will give their acceptance speech at the Bank of America Stadium on Thursday.
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