First Day Of Issue Ceremony Questions

What can one expect at a first day of issue ceremony? Can you purchase covers and other related materials there? Also, is this a very formal affair?

Thank you very much!

Never been to a first day of issue ceremony myself, but maybe this program from the recently issued Indy 500 stamp might give you some indication of what to expect:

The Linn's site had some pictures of things too; and since it was at the track, I don't think I'd say it was very formal.
http://www.linns.com/newsletter/lsn...sletter.aspx

bftanton, it looks like you have to subscribe to Linn's to see the photos.

some are more structured than others. Usually it is a bunch of collectors in the crowd, local politicians saying a speech, and then the unveiling. If you are lucky the speakers & special guests will stay and sign your Ceremony Program. Most cases for national events attendees get a free ceremony program already stamped on the outer cover. I am hoping on attending the Mark Twain event on the 25th in Hannibal MO.

The one I'm going to is in July for the Owney stamp. It is at the National Postal Museum, so I'm not sure how "formal" it is going to be compared to others, like the Indy 500 one.

Stampdude, the Mark Twain one sounds neat. Are you making some covers for that one?

Bet Lucky could!

I forgot to address your other questions. Usually there is a USPS table set up to purchase the stamp being released, digital postmark FDOI covers, and other related materials. I have also seen cover artists selling/trading their covers in the crowd. They usually are not dress attire, but mostly casual affairs.

If I find the time I am hoping to have a few covers to service. I was even thinking of getting additional postmarks from towns along the Great River Road. Since it is a Saturday, I doubt I'll have much time to do that though since the ceremony is at 10 am and most PO's will be closed after I leave.

I would love to attend a ceremony at the NPM, especially a fun one like Owney!

Stamperdude,

Let me know if you are interested in one of these covers. I can pick one up for you.

FROM THE NTSS WEBSITE:
The USPS has changed the date of issue for the Mark Twain commemorative to June 25, the Saturday during NTSS. While the First Day of ISSUE will be at Hannibal, Mo., NTSS will have a First Day of SALE ceremony at 12:00, and FD souvenir program and cacheted cover, both with a special FDS pictorial postmark. The cancel was designed by Chris Lazaroff.

http://www.americantopicalassn.org/...ntss2011.htm (Has a picture of the cancel).

Yes, I would be interested in the FDOS program and cover from the Wisconsin event. If I get my cachet finished in time I will send you a couple to get serviced (one for you and one for me). Thanks for the offer. I'd be willing to do the same for you at the FDOI Hannibal MO ceremony.

BTW, Here is the ceremony program for the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial issues I attended.