Can you buy tickets to the DNC? How to attend the Democratic convention

Vice President Kamala Harris is set to formally accept the Democratic presidential nomination on Thursday, the final night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention .

The past three days have featured political stars like the Obamas and the Clintons , as well as celebrity stars like Oprah and Mindy Kaling . Musical guests have included John Legend and Stevie Wonder, and Lil Jon made a surprise appearance during Georgia’s roll call. Some on X have referred to the convention as “Coachella” for Democrats.

The convention website said that 50,000 people will visit Chicago for the convention, including 5,000 delegates and alternates from all 50 states. Becoming a delegate differs in each state and territory as state parties manage the delegate selection process.

About 15,000 members of the media were also expected to attend. The arena, Chicago’s United Center, is designed to hold 23,500 .

However, the general public cannot attend the convention.

How do you get tickets to the DNC?

“Only credentialed delegates, media, and guests can attend the convention in-person,” the convention’s website says. “We are building a convention to reach all Americans and will provide opportunities to participate.”

Instead, the convention encouraged members of the community to volunteer in roles like security, event staffing, technology, and transportation. According to the Chicago convention website , 30,000 people volunteered and applications closed on Aug. 19.

How to watch the DNC Thursday

The convention will air live on its website , from the United Center in Chicago between 7 and 11 p.m. Eastern (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central.)

USA TODAY will provide livestream coverage on YouTube each night of the DNC, Monday through Thursday.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Can you buy tickets to the DNC? How to attend the Democratic convention