Michell and Barack Obama wave to the press before their dance

Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys and Jamie Foxx were among the celebrities who helped President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama party into the evening on the day that their second term in the White House began. The inauguration itself in Washington DC went down a storm, with the re-elected leader telling his countrymen to "seize the moment", and mentioning many of his pledges that those who'd voted against him last year rallied against, including state welfare and an end to war in the Middle East. 

Expectations have been adjusted for Obama's second term in charge, but he sounded bullish at the inauguration yesterday

Beyonce arguably stole the show out of the performers who appeared yesterday, her rendition of the 'Star Spanged Banner' one of the best heard in years, but there was plenty to write home about at the evening's ball as well, with a glamorous looking Michelle upstaging her husband on their first dance in front of the press. Jennifer Hudson sang the ballad 'Let's Stay Together' as the couple danced, whilst other performers included Keys - who E! Online reports changed her song 'Girl On Fire' to 'Obama's On Fire' - and Jamie Foxx. 

Jennifer Hudson serenaded Barack and Michelle Obama as they danced

A whole host of events have taken place over the weekend in Washington DC, with stars including Katy Perry, the cast of Glee, Kelly Clarkson, James Taylor and Usher appearing at various places. For Clarkson and Taylor, they joined Beyonce in performing at the Inauguration itself, whilst Perry and Usher performed at the Kids Inaugural Ball.

Check out the rest of the evening's pictures here