The inaugural celebrations came in waves last night — Commander-in-Chief's Ball, Youth Ball, Neighborhood Ball, Southern States Ball, Western States, and on — but the new president stayed in high spirits.

Though he delivered a somber inaugural address, Barack Obama didn't seem to have trouble enjoying his first night as president, judging by the pictures. If you feel like drowning yourself in them — it's remarkably easy, daresay mood altering — try the excellent shots in this Washington Post gallery, as well as the one on Politico.

The photos below come from Getty and AP, with a select few from the Washington Post and Times.

Send an email to Ryan Tate, the author of this post, at ryan@gawker.com.