The parties are a January tradition, where high-powered lobbying shops and law firms open up their offices for clients, legislators and officials, affording opportunities to renew ties and lay the groundwork for lobbying and deal-making. The gatherings in K Street and Pennsylvania Avenue suites offered catered buffets and even balcony views as the commander in chief's caravan rolled by, venues supplemented by high-priced hotel rooms, gala balls and invitation-only parties.

As the A-listers streamed in Monday, Washington's political world had already adapted to a scaled-back version of the festivities of four years ago, when more than 1.5 million people packed the National Mall. Lobbying shops got fewer ticket requests from corporate clients and office parties shrank to appeal to smaller crowds.

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