WASHINGTON --- From the best seats in the house, Barack Obama's inauguration proved to be a mix of serious reflection and fraternity-like ribbing with a dash of celebrity gazing.

A select group of 400, warmed by blue blankets, sat on the platform to witness history up close. Folding chairs were standard for most; only the principals -- such as Mr. Obama and former President George W. Bush -- sat on cushioned, highback chairs. Obama family and friends, members of past and soon-to-be administrations, Supreme Court justices, lawmakers and stars of film and sports were arrayed in rows beyond the podium.

Moments proved poignant, somber and funny.

There was Muhammad Ali, the boxing legend whose oratory skills have forever been changed by Parkinson's disease, getting help from a family member who tried to put gloves on his famous hands. There was actor Leonardo DiCaprio, playing paparazzo and taking photographs. Academy-award winning director Steven Spielberg also was camera-ready.

Former basketball star Magic Johnson posed for photographs with many of those in attendance, including a governor or two.

There was California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger comparing notes with former Gov. Gray Davis while standing in the aisle in the risers near the main platform. Asked to move, Mr. Schwarzenegger jokingly told a young woman, "We're solving a budget crisis."

California faces a budget deficit that is expected to exceed $40 billion over the next 18 months.

The governors who attended proved to be a frisky lot. Seated in rows on the left side, just above the main platform, they decided to have some fun when Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, Mr. Obama's choice to head the Department of Homeland Security, showed up.

"Hey, Janet," they called out in unison.

Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine explained that Ms. Napolitano once headed the National Governor's Association.

The memorable moment for Mr. Kaine was when the new president spoke to the world -- "so powerful," Mr. Kaine said. "The people and the world are paying so much attention."

Scores of senators wore cowboy hats, from Montana's Max Baucus to Pennsylvania's Arlen Specter.