The Democratic National Convention 2012 is just days ahead and hundreds of delegates from around the United States arrived Saturday night to Charlotte, North Carolina, according to Eyewitness News.

According to the Charlotte Observer, there were thousands of visitors that arrived today including the delegates, members of the media, police officers and protesters.

While the event doesn't start until Tuesday, the city is already in full convention mode.

City officials have set up barricades on the streets, convention banners are hanging from buildings and souvenirs with the photo of President Barack Obama are for sale in coffee shops.

Activities linked to the convention will start Sunday at 11 a.m. with a protest rally and a parade, the Observer reports.

Charlotte officials are expected to throw a welcoming party for the visitors in the afternoon at the NASCAR Hall of Game to greet them and highlight some of the attractions the city has to offer, reported channel wsoctv.

The Democratic National Convention 2012 is expected to draw about 15,000 people on the first two days and more than 73,000 people on the third and closing day, when President Barack Obama will deliver a speech and accept the nomination at the Bank of America Stadium on Thursday.


High-profile speakers include First Lady Michelle Obama, Keynote Speaker and San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro, former President Bill Clinton, Chicago Mayor and former Obama Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts, Senate Candidate Elizabeth Warren.


Performers include latin super star Marc Anthony, Mary J. Blige, the Foo Fighters and Earth, Wind and Fire.