I got 4 tickets this am. The site kept crashing several times but I eventually got them. Good luck to all!

No luck yet -- but I am going to keep trying. It was easier to get tickets to the Inauguration!

The info is incorrect, children over 10 can attend, there has to be at least one child under ten in your group.

I'm going by this line on the White House Easter Egg Roll site: "Children age ten and under, along with their families are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group." But if you have another source that clears it up, please let us know....

I also got 3 tickets this morning. My suggestion would be to keep trying for the time slot you really want to go to- it said there were no more tickets left for the 8-10 AM slot, however upon trying again I managed to get 3 tickets for my family.

I have been trying since 8am.

At one point I got as far as entering a security code, but once that window loaded I got the "Unable to fill that many tickets" message.

Now I am just getting the check back message.

fingers are crossed.

I also managed to get 4 tickets but for a time later then I want to go. At least I got them though.

Been trying since 8am this morning with no luck. But it beats going into DC at 3am only to find out all the tickets are gone!

I tried to get tickets for the White House easter egg roll for TWO HOURS. the website keeps timing out. I got all the way to freaking end and IT FREAKING TIMED OUT.

I am so pissed off. I'd rather have stood in line.

I have been trying ALL morning to get tickets. I keep refreshing the home page and I only this message: "This webpage is not available." Is anyone else experiencing that?

I also have been trying since 8am this morning. The site is awful I get to a certain point and it kicks me out. I'm totally frustrated.

what is the site to get tickets? I've been searching all morning with no luck. Went to the website but the link won't work

Here's the url that the Easter Egg roll site sends you to. But it won't always load: http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/

I tried last night after midnight and today since 8 AM but no luck... I will keep trying.

I am having no luck either. Could they have picked a worse website? Maybe they should have had Ticketmaster host this?

I tried at 8 am this morning got as far as choosing my time then kept getting error pages. I tried the contact us button to let them know the site keeps bringing up errors, but I got another error page! VERY FRUSTRATED at this point.

I can in from shooting a movie at midnight and started my search to no avail nothing. I came close but the system keep kicking me out. I wonder does the President and The First Family know that April 13th is my 51st Birthday and I want to celebrate it at the White House with my niece and nephew? Anyway, my fingers are tired and my eyes are crossed but persistance with prevail! I'll see yall at my Birthday party at the White House.

Have been trying since 8:00 am and am desperate to get tickets for my 4 grandchildren. If anyone has tickets and find they cannot use them, pls, pls, contact me (202-736-5556). LOL

I've been trying for a few hours now. The page either refuses to load, or it just says "Tickets will be available at various times throughout the day....If you are unable to order tickets at this time please check back later."

At this point I am getting very frustrated. It'd be easier for me to try late tonight when the kids are asleep, but are they really going to be offering tickets after 10pm? Probably not. They should have offered half online and half to people who stood in line. It's probably mostly scalpers who are getting the tickets right now.

I was able to make an account but could not log in to it not the website is saying can not be displayed if I try to log on to my account. I have not scored tickets? Do you have to score tickets before you make an account or is it the other way around?? I have just started trying though...

My wife tasked me to get these tickets... so I better get them but I keep going to the website I don't see any link to start the "order"; am I missing something?

I'm going to whitehouse.gov/eastereggroll

Any help or direction is much appreciated.

Regards

There's a link under "Ticketing," but it's hard to see. The url that takes you to is http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/

I've been checking the website since 12am on and off. More frequently starting at 9am. Got to the point of being asked how many tickets, then told none availabe. This experience is worse than standing in line. I'll just keep trying. I'd rather take my chances with someone picking my number from a hat!

I'd rather camp out all night and know I was going to get tickets than have to sit infront of the computer all day. Trying to get tickets and pay attention to a 2 yr old is impossible this way. This was the worst idea ever. I was on line at 8:05am and couldn't get tickets because the website kept timing out.

I have successfully stood in line for the last 3 years. Piece of cake. This year tried to check availability at midnight, 3:00am, 6:00am, and from 8:00 on. Still no luck. This system is very disappointing to veterans.

For those who were successful did you need an account with frontgate to get the tickets?

when i go to whitehs.gov/eastregrol it just has the statemnt tickets will be avl "here". What site actually lets you attempt to get tickets? Please anyone respond. Thanks.

Check out the comments above for the url.

I have been trying to get tickets ALL morning to no avail. I have been consistently receiving messages that say the site is unavailable, but for the first time got a message that says: "Tickets for the 2009 White House Egg Roll are no longer available at this time. Tickets will be available at various times throughout the day. If you are unable to order tickets at this time, please check back later."

At least if I stood in line I would know what my chances are! This is just nerve rattling! I will keep checking back, but I was not planning on this being so challenging!

Yes, it took a full hour of persistence but hang in there, I had finally got them!

I have always wanted to take my kids, and my daughter is 10 and will be very excited, and my son is 3.

:)

Now instead of seeing the green webpage with the text I quoted above, I just get a white page that says tickets aren't available and asking me to check back later.

Was there some sort of invisible link that I missed on the green page? I made an account, searched all the help and FAQ's, even checked in at the my orders section and nada.

Can anyone who successfully got tickets clue us in?

My husband and I went through all the steps and received a confirmation number but the site said it was still processing, at which point the system crashed so we are in ticket limbo right now. Hopefully, we'll get tickets.

I have to agree with lots of others-- FRUSTRATING!

There were 7 Moms from PA all set to camp out-- many of us had taken off work or arranged special day care-- since we planned to leave at 9am on Friday morning. Then they announce-- nope on the internet.

So one person from our group called the White House on tuesday and was told midnight. All of us tried at midnight-- no change to the website. I tried again at 4am and started my day at 6am refreshing every 5-10 minutes. Just after 8, I finally got a change-- ended up in a "waiting room" where I sat for the next 35 minutes til it said no more tickets available at this time.

Meanwhile, I called my SIL, she got right in, but couldn't find any available tickets. And several people from our group had to go to work where they do not have internet access. They should have taken today off of work, not the Friday before Easter!

I have tried since but have not gotten anything but "try back later" messages. FRUSTRATING!

I was so persistent. I kept waking up every hour to check to see if they were up yet. Must have released them at 8.

I was able to score 6 tickets, all while getting my son ready for school. It was a lot of work. Kept getting error messages. But, I opened several tabs and kept refreshing each of them.

Can't wait to go.

check out my blog:
http://www.mommynotguilty.blogspot.com

This is lame. I have a feeling that I won't get any tickets or any work done today.

I have been online since 8:00 to no avail. I navigated to a point where I designated the "four ticket" package, but the system did not allow me to go further. The online idea is good because it allows employed parents an opportunity to get tickets.

The powers that be had to know this would involve a cyber crush of humanity. Will keep trying. Patience my child, patience. Deeeep breaths.

I have been persistent since 8 a.m. So far it's been a total nightmare!

I have been on this computer for most of the day....instead of working. If anyone has any extra tickets, please allow me to take a little boy who is 6 years old and had a very tuff time in life. He could use some inspiration. 202 276 7472

I too have been trying since 8 am to get tickets and have not been able to. I even registered an account and no luck. I guess it isn't meant to be. I appreciate the Obamas with being tech savvy, but I think the old fashioned way works just as well.

Has anyone been able to log in and had the issue of not finding any "events?" I would appreciate your comments. This is perhaps the biggest waste of time I have encountered in a long time.

I have been trying from 8 am more than 4 hours. It is very FRUSTRATING!

My 3.5 years old is Frustrated too. She is asking every minute if I was able to get the ticket

I've never heard of Frontgate Tickets.
Maybe they are not big enough to handle the traffic. I'll keep trying, tho.

I have been trying since 8AM but to no avail. The one time I finally got in I was told that tickets for all times were "unavailable." Isn't this supposed to be a lottery? How can tickets sell out? I also previously applied to be a volunteer for this event, but never got even a word in response. As a former Purple Tunnel of Doom participant during the inauguration, I am afraid this event may turn into the Easter Egg Roll of Shame.

i've been trying since early this morning with no luck whatsoever. i have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot of these up on ebay or craigslist for sale. i suspect the ticketmongers with plenty of bots have gotten plenty of these things.

very, very frustrated. and what the obama people don't understand is that some people actually look forward to the ticket campout and have for a long time. families do this. gah.

I tried for 2 1/2 hours and finall thought I got tickets. I even got an order number but no confirmation. Called the ticketing place and they said that even though I had an order number and they had all my info that I was not issued tickets. They said too bad and hung up on me. This is the worst system ever!

I am so sick of "checking back later" for four hours strait. THIS IS WAY WORSE THAN WAITING IN LINE. I think the White House should have better managed our expectations in regards to the new online method of getting these tickets! This is just ridiculous...I am fed up and refuse to "refresh" my day away.

I have been trying all morning, got as far as the order tickets screen, but then was told they weren't available. I have been clicking the link every five minutes all morning, I am starting to think about giving up.

Exactly,it states children under 10 along with their families,it is possible that some families have kids older than 10 isn't it?No More than 2 adults.One child under 10 must be in the group!The tickets, which are timed for entrance and exit to the South Lawn, will be emailed to each confirmed guest and the original must be printed and presented to gain entry to the South Lawn. A maximum of six tickets will be issued per order. Children age ten and under, along with their families are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House.

Right. It just sounds like the event is geared to kids under 10, so over-10-year-olds may not find it so interesting. Then again, it seems that everyone wants to go!

They're already on craigslist. I KNEW it was mostly scalpers.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/tix/1092915836.html

I have not gotten tickets yet and am frustrated. However, I still think this is a more "fair" system than the old one. There are people from all over the country who would like to have a chance to come to the Egg Roll but haven't been able to make the expensive trip for a *chance* of getting to go. This way people from further afield can attend.

For the "veterans" who have been 3 times or more-- you are luckier already than 99.999% of the population.

I have been trying for 4 straight hours now with no luck. Earlier around 8:30amish..I was able to get on and put the security code in but then the site crashed. I'll keep trying though!

After trying for hours, I finally got to the end. It said please wait while we process your order. It appeared to never finish. Going to continue to try just in case. If I succeed a second time, then I post it here. I have a feeling that I won't know until the week of April 6th when they send a URL link to print tickets.

I think they would have been better off with a random lottery. At least then we could have submitted info and been done with it rather than waste an entire day wondering if it is time to "check back later" :(

I have been trying since 8am (is't now 12:30pm) and got so far as to enter the security code before the system kicked me out.
I would MUCH rather camp out in line then sit here all day hitting refresh. I actually took a vacation day b/c my employer blocks most internet traffic - and I fear I'm going to come up empty. I'm all for 'equal opportunity' but this isn't it!

I tried at 7:30 and there was no link. Then I tried again at 8 am and there was a link to the frontgates website, which took me at 8:04 through the process of entering name, address, no. of tix and voila! At 8:11 I had an email which said I will get 6 tickets!

I really have trying the whole morning I even emailed to complain to the webmaster

I usually wait a long time to get into the correct site, a few time

but most of the times it just freeze

I have been trying all day with no luck. =(

Hmmm. I got right in at 8:00 and thought I got 5 tix. Very last "confirmation" page crashed- but I did receive an order via e-mail. Though, after reading comments, wondering if I really do have tix???

Just moved to the Baltimore area from Colorado less than 2 weeks ago. I was very excited to try to take my 3 children ages 8,8, and 6. I have been trying since 8am. I got as far as entering a security code ie. I thought I had tickets and the site crashed. Frusturating to say the least. If anyone has success this afternoon please post.

I've actually got signed up and the orgiginal URL for the tickets is no longer around and it take you to: http://static.independenttickets.com/common/eggroll.html which is not the original website to get tickets so it's been hacked. Told WTOP that the eggroll website for tickets no longer exists. Some one let the Whitehouse folks know their eggroll webiste is down! so no one can get tickets now!

I have stared at the website since 5:00 am and have nto had any luck. I am very frustrated and sad. Oh well. I guess that is what I get for getting excited about something.

been trying all morning...the website is down for AWHILE...we contacted the webmaster...probably won't be up until at the earliest 2 or 3 ... the page currently won't even load...has anyone gotten tickets after the first morning rush at 8am eastern?

I am so confused by the site. One minute I have a green screen with info but not to actually get tickets then if I refresh I get a blank screen with the same message posted in this article?

I started trying at 7 (baby woke up early today, yikes!) and it seemed they started the ticket availability at 8 am (Eastern). It did time out a lot but I was persisitant.

I just kept clicking through to random time slots, etc, and finally got 2 tickets: 1 adult, 1 child. But I may not want to use them...it's just no fun if both parents cannot go. I'll give them away locally if we decide not to go.

I'll keep checking back throughout the day randomly to see if it comes back up, but right now (12:30 Eastern), it is a different "No tickets available at this time" page than they were sending you to this morning, so perhaps they're all gone??

I find it aggravating that people who did not get tickets complain that it wasn't fair. I find this method much fairer than the tacky campout scene at the Ellipse consisting entirely of DC locals.

--Elissssabeth
Southeastern Virginia

Like everything else in this world, the Easter Egg Roll has taken on a life of its own and is now too big. We have had no luck thus far on line.

Last year even though I waited in line beginning at midnight (I could have cared less that the Jonas Bros. were there) after driving down from Philly, I was turned away without tickets. I think it is good they are trying to do this online but clearly demand is too great. It used to be so simple in the late 90's to go to this event and even during the first years of President Bush after 9/11.

Perhaps the White House should consider making it a week long event and go back to it just being the "egg roll" and some crafts, etc. and less like a Disney Channel show. Maybe it should only be open to kids 10 and younger. It used to be a thrill just to walk on the White House lawn and participate. You don't need all the extra sfuff.

Happy Easter!

I noticed about an hour ago, that the site kicks you from http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/ to http://static.independenttickets.com/common/eggroll.html

Does this mean it has been hacked and scalpers are going to get all the tickets while we residents sit in a fake site?

Been trying since 7:30 without success. Very frustrating. Wish they had chosen a better outlet to handle the traffic, or simply put set times that they would have tickets available.

"I am so confused by the site. One minute I have a green screen with info but not to actually get tickets then if I refresh I get a blank screen with the same message posted in this article?"

ME, TOO! Maybe we crashed the site?

I am glad to hear that I am not the only one frustrated! I have been trying for 5 hours straight, only to have the site crash, be put in a "waiting room" that lasts longer that President Bush's pergatory, and to be told that they are all sold out. I would have rather waited out in the rain. Goodness knows what they will sell for on ebay.

This is retarded. I would have much rather stood in-line like I have the past 6 years. I HATE THIS WEBSITE THING!!! This website takes all the fun out it for the adults who get a kick out of standin in line.

My wife and I have been trying from home and work all day with now luck. I think the online method is a better solution since it opens the experience up to anyone anywhere, but they certainly should have selected a ticket broker with considrably more bandwidth.

As an aside to the doomsayers that think the site has beeb hacked, STOP IT! I took 5 seconds and did a whois on the independenttickets.com domain found that it is also owned by FrontGate Tickets. Do a little research before you claim an internet apocalypse it upon us.

Thanks for sharing that. I've been trying to hunt around myself to see if the site had been hacked or not.

The web will never work for stuff like this, just not gonna happen. They tell people "We will put ticketing on-line" and everyone rejoices. How thoughtful, isn't the internet great! No more standing in line for hours. But then the actual process. . .jammed or down servers, hackers, scalpers, scammers, attacks on the site, little or no information posted on the process, no directions, no error message, incompehensible error messages, kicked out of site for no reason, total ineptness. It always happens. And then the ticket site says "We couln't have anticipated the volume of on-line traffic" At least when you stood in line you could see how many people were in front of you, see if anyone was jumping the line, make some sense of the situation. With the web, you just get frustration.

I was able to get a password from site, but now am unable to get back in to sign on? Does this mean since I have an account that I will be guarenteed tickets once I can actually get back on the site and sign in?

I have been trying all morning and it appears that I am in a loop trying to get tickets for the daughter and family. Very frustrating. Once we thought we had gotten through now we only get a screen saying check back later.

the correct thing for whitehouse.gov or the ticket browser, should release a statement stating the problem and when it's estimated to be fixed...I think that would alleviate everyone's frustration of thinking all of the tickets are gone...Then what happens when all of the "internet" people can't attend because they live in Alaska...There will be tons of no shows...They should save at least a few thousand for the locals that are certain they can attend...Just a thought...

I got tickets at around 9 am ET, it took some tries and a different time than i wanted, but i won't get picky!!!!

Good luck

I have been on here since 9:30 and I keep checking back all the time and nothing I really hope I get some tickets What a waste of time at least my am.

I agree with the idea that the site has been hacked.

All the links on the White House page lead nowhere. Here, try it yourself: http://www.whitehouse.gov/EasterEggRoll/

You can't even get to the front gate site anymore. Luckily, I still have the front gate site open in one of my tabs, but when I refresh it takes me to the independent tickets page. You can try that too if you want: http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/corp/about.php?id=1100

This really is ridiculous. It is sad that people are so desperate that they are willing to sell out over an event for children! Some people are really loosing site of what is important.

Have you visited craigslist since the tickets were made available? You should! All the folks on there trying to buy these tickets are just as bad as the scalpers in my opinion.

And the White House thought this would be fair??!!?? They forgot that most Americans value money over anything else.

This is disgraceful to all of us, but I continue to try for the tickets. I guess I can't help but think of how beautiful my daughter's smile will be while rolling her egg. And if we don't get tickets, I will spend the day with her anyways.

I hope there are lessons learned here, for all involved.

I have been trying all day.After reading the comments ,I don't feel too crazy.Lets keep on trying everyone.We can do it!

I too have had problems, and I too have been trying since early this a.m. I do feel a little better knowing that I am not the only one with these problems, not much, but a little! I too would rather have camped out, but since a few of you have stated that you did in fact get tickets at leaast I know that some of the ordinary folks have gotten tickets and that this is not just a farce designed to make us think that its open to the public!

was thier ever any ticket any way .i have 'been trying and can't get nothing . i even called no response.

I posted earlier about not receiving a confirmation. I finally talked to someone from fronttickets and our request did not go through :( However, she was very nice and told me that they have held tickets from this morning to all sessions. So there are more tickets. She would not tell me when they would be available, but gave me the impression that it would be later in the afternoon.

Thanks for sharing your update with us!

This system is not right.

Let me camp out in the cold.

Thanks for sharing the info! I have been trying since 7:30 am this morning and no luck yet.

NEW INFO JUST POSTED
Thank you for your patience. Ticket demand for the 2009 White House Egg Roll is exceptionally high. We apologize for any difficulty in reserving the tickets. If you did not receive a confirmation page then you were not able to successfully secure tickets at that time. Tickets are not available at this time. Tickets will be available at various times through the day ONLINE ONLY. If you were unable to order tickets, please check back later. Please note that only a limited number of tickets are available.

This is a new message just posted:

Thank you for your patience. Ticket demand for the 2009 White House Egg Roll is exceptionally high. We apologize for any difficulty in reserving the tickets. If you did not receive a confirmation page then you were not able to successfully secure tickets at that time. Tickets are not available at this time. Tickets will be available at various times through the day ONLINE ONLY. If you were unable to order tickets, please check back later. Please note that only a limited number of tickets are available.

Like almost everyone posting here I too have tried for hours with only frustration to show for my efforts. The old "stand-in-line" method may have been flawed, but anything is better than this mess. The overnight campout on the ellipse (even in snow-two years ago) is far more pleasant than thousands (millions?) of parents cursing alone at their computer screens!

There is a new message up now.

NEW MESSAGE

Thank you for your patience. Ticket demand for the 2009 White House Egg Roll is exceptionally high. We apologize for any difficulty in reserving the tickets. If you did not receive a confirmation page then you were not able to successfully secure tickets at that time. Tickets are not available at this time. Tickets will be available at various times through the day ONLINE ONLY. If you were unable to order tickets, please check back later. Please note that only a limited number of tickets are available.

I guess I'll keep trying. Goodluck to everyone.

Be sure & leave a COMMENT for the President at the White House site and tell him (them) what you think of the new system.

I'm sure no system is "fair," but not everyone has internet access, and even less have high speed access. Not to mention those who might have access but can't sit at a computer all day waiting for the magical time to appear!

I see someone has already beat me to it...got the new message as well but am still going to hang in there and keep trying. Craigslist postings for this are ridiculous...c'mon people!!!!!

Been trying but no luck since 10am. My FB friends also have been trying without any luck. The competition on line far exceeds those who stand out in the cold weather which is why everyone is frustrated because now they're competing with the entire US!

>

EXACTLY the point. Not all of us across the US can afford to take a trip to Washington DC TWICE within a few weeks. But if someone in AZ or LA or TX or AR or VT gets tickets, they can find a way to get there ONCE.

I just called Frontgate to find out some info and here is what I got - they do have tickets available and yes their site is down - it crashed. They also were NOT expecting this volume, although I would think that considering how many local people stand in line the White House should have expected this. The operator also told me that its very likely that the tickets will be available up until late tonight, but as of right now they are available today only, and not over the next few days. I hope that that helps a little for everyone else that is trying to get tickets. Also, don't forget to occasionally clear out your cookies so you don't just keep refreshing to the cached page. That happened to me earlier.

I have been trying since 1:00 am to get ticket. I was able to get on the site. But all the ticket was taking. I check on the time.

And how many of those people do you think can afford to travel to DC when they only receive their "actual" ticket 4/4-4/8...So that would leave very little time for someone to book a flight or to make other travel arrangments to get here in less than a week...More likely than not, people who atttempting to get tickets that live far away, will not be in attendence...Then they will either sell them to someone or simply not use them...So what's the point ...

I would never expect something like this. It really apperas as illusion of lottery then real lottery.

Why not let everybody provide info via some sort of form or forms in a peaceful manner and then at some point in time let the computer to do the picking and sending out the tickets? it is 21 century isn't it?

this what we are experiencing is something entirely different.

as to CRAIGS LIST AND EBAY..
I woud be cautious, those peope might not even have any tickets and try to sell what other need.

I once was really badly scammed
that way and there is little you can do..
you have no guarantee that you will get what you are paying on on craigslist or ebay even if someone is promissing you to send it in the certified mail.. you never know what is in the envelope anyways..

and people will list them and sell them as long as there are pepople willing to pay for hope. just wait and see how many people will be scammed this way. I am sure of it.

the problem is that your paypal won't reimburse you for things like this ..
and ebay wont', and if they won't then wait till Craig's list will reimburse you .. yeah..

so beware before you make any purchases.

It seems to me that the potential to abuse this system (scalpers, etc.) is much higher than the old waiting-in-line system. Although I've not waited in line for a ticket (but was all set to do it this year), I can imagine that far fewer scalpers and "maybe I can go...so I'll get tickets and decide later" types will wait for hours in line. Although I applaud the fact that people around the country can go, what is going to happen to the tickets of people who live far away and found they couldn't go? They'll either sit on the tickets, give them away or sell them, options I think that were much less likely for people who waited >10 hr to get a ticket. As a result, I wonder if this will turn out to be one of the least populated Egg Rolls.

Since I know I got tickets, I can now make reservations. I got a confirmation email, as did other NON-LOCALS who were finally able to try to get tickets. The ticket will be emailed the Friday before. That leaves plenty of travel time between Friday and Monday. Or, I can print my tickets out from my email from a hotel business center...it will be in my email inbox.

The website is back up. I just scored 6 tixs no problem!

The tickets appear to be on sale again!!! GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!

I just got the tickets!!!! hurry on to the site it's back up! Good Luck to you all.

Well, I got to the order sheet again, but it keep saying, "We were not able to find that many tickets in that section."-- I want one adult and one kid. ARGH!

It's crashed. In the middle of my order. :(

Almost had them...click on BUY and server went down. :-(

what is the site? I keep getting nothing

THANK GOD...JUST GOT 3 TICKETS FOR 2PM

If you get timed out, hit "back" and refresh. I was at the "purchase" button and got timed out several times. Kept following these steps and finally got 5 tix for 3pm. Good luck!

We also have been trying all day i set up 3:30am this morning one thing that has me really bother is i've gotten as far waiting on confirmation then got kicked out when i go back on to site it directs me to yet another site please don't be fooled by the ebay and craig list because i've read they will sent by email but you still can't print them right away be careful.

Oh...and I just "love" how it actually gives you the option of picking the maximum # of tickets, but then, after you hit okay, it says, "Sorry, that number of tickets isn't available." And then gives the same message for the absolute LOWEST # you can pick, too. Don't even OFFER IT IF IT'S NOT AVAILABLE! Geez....

Seems logical and "fair." Ain't Obama about "fair?"

should I give up my daughter awaken me at 6 oclock am this morning / afriend call me at 9am none of us have been able to get on for the egg roll,not giving in yet.we got to the green page logged in and no response it keep telling us web page cannot be founded set refresh page lost..what to do!!please help us Mr.President Obama this once in a lifetime opportunity is here I need 6 tickets for my grands!!!!

Is it down again...Am I at the right site..http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/...looks like it's trying to load for the past 10 minutes??

I think you're in the right place.

Based on the time posted by the person who said the site was now back up, that lasted about 30 minutes as the "no longer available" message is back.

Let me say that I had a LOT MORE FUN watching my movie out in the snow 2 years ago than doing this junk.

I was so excited to finally get to the screen to buy, only to have it timeout. :(

Why can't you just pick a number of tickets and not a time slot? I really don't mind what time we go, I just want to GO!!!

Same as everyone else, got as far as the confirmation and then got kicked out. This sucks.

It happens to me,too. :(

it seems to have stalled now

So they closed the "sale" again, and I am not sure if I got tickets. I entered my security password, then got this message:
For security purposes, you have been logged out.
If your transaction completed successfully, you should receive your receipt via email shortly.

I still have not received a conformation email, so I don't really know what is going on.

I finally got on to buy tickets but then no matter what I did it said there were none left. Then it threw me out.

Uuuuccckkkk.

OK...I FINALLY got through at 218pm . Out of nowhere, the site came up and I got so excited, I selected fewer tickets than I needed but I got through!!! Good luck out there!!

Carolyn congratulations...how did you do it...did you just keep "refreshing the page"?

Please someone... make a post if the site comes back up. It seems to be down again. Each time I am just a little to late. Thanks!

I tried for 7 hours . This is the worst system ever! Keeps kicking me off. This is wrong

Good luck all ! Got my tickets....But to let you know, the confirmation e-mail comes instantly...If you haven't received it, sadly you probably didn't get them...I have a receipt and a confirmation page printed almost instantly...

Congrats to everyone who scored tickets. How did you do it? I had multiple screens open and haven't gotten beyond the first screen except once this morning but was kicked out at the confirmation page.

For those who recently got tickets....

What time slots did you pick?

Thanks in Advance.

RE: flip @ 3:03 p.m.

Carolyn "did it" by being lucky enough to log in at EXACTLY the right moment. Within 30 minutes (probably long before), folks could not get tickets, and soon after that, the site was down again.

Although the site may not so much be "down," as voluntarily taken off-line so that it will be "fair."

Well I guess I can join the ranks of those that were disappointed . I had multiple windows open, got to the confirmation screen on one and TIMED OUT. I've been trying all day - since 5 am....just relocated to the DC area and I was looking forward to taking my children.

Guess I missed that one.

could someone who has actually gotten them tell me what the exact process is (have been able to get up to the number of tickets i want and then the same happens) all the way through

Got to the screen to order ticket around 2:38 PM EST then it timed out on me when I tried to place my order?? Now the site says check back later, this is worse than the cabbage patch dolls
in the 80s

I have been trying since 10am this morning. I feel for everyone who have been trying much earlier. I also had frustrations. I never had to refresh the page ... for me , everything went smoothly except I selected the wrong number tickets. Good luck flip.

Carolyn here:

For my experience, the site just came up and I selected times but the wrong number of tickets. I never had to wait for time outs...everything just started happening. Just as M stated, you get a 7 digit confirmation and then an email.

I got through and snagged some. I would suggest registering on the site to make the process go faster. I think that is what got me through.

Good luck to all!

I was SO close...I had 6 tickets selected and then the page just sat there staring at me...timed out. Bummer!

I cannot "register on the site" before purchasing anything there. Here is a FAQ from the FAQ page (front gate tickets site) for those who say they think they got through:

I did not receive my email confirmation. Can I have it resent?

Please go online to the website you made the purchase from, and log into your account using the password and email address you used to make your purchase. Once you are logged in, you can click on .My Order History. which will list the orders made under this account. From there, you can view your order and/or email yourself a new copy of your confirmation. If you do not have an account, you may call our office to have your receipt resent. Please be aware that many spam filters may block the email, so please check your junk or spam folder.

It's front gate tickets (dot) com. They also have a customer service number. I would *not* call them unless you think you purchased, but haven't gotten confirmation.

They're not going to want to hear about not being able to get through at all. It's not really their fault.

Front Gate Tickets (888-512-7469) is responsible for the lousy web site.

I have been checking the website on and off since midnight. I understand the reason for posting the tickets on the internet. But, this has been a very frustrating process. I have been as far as typing in the security code and I am booted out of the system. Personally, I would rather camp out then, I would know what my chances are.

I am trying since 9o'clock, but no luck !!!!!!

Got in, checked every amount of ticket showing and it continued to SAY We were not able to find that many tickets in that section"

I tried over 20 min and it finally kicked me out back to the check back later screen.

Hi everyone. I was able to score 6 tickets this morning after 8. It took about 10 minutes for the entire process. I opened several tabs and kept refreshing them until one worked. There was no real magic. My site crashed a lot to, but I was able to get through.

When you do get in, try picking different combination of time and amount of tickets. Even if you don't get what you want, at least someone will be able to go. Most likely the 1 adult combo will work the best. I have 2 adults and 4 children for 3-5pm.

I don't know how I was able to get through, but I was. Hope everyone's luck turns out better when the site comes back up.

SHAME ON ALL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE SCALPING TICKETS on craigslist!!!

Check out my blog:
http://www.mommynotguilty.blogspot.com

What an awful plan. Instead of competing with people with the commitment to wait in line, I have to compete with office workers in California who just want to sell them on ebay.

Honestly, the WH folks could learn something from Wimbledon/French Open ticket sales. Online lottery registration, with pre-selection of preference, and emails sent on day of lottery, with confirmation or denial of request. Easy and painless. This has wasted a whole lot of work hours today across the country, I am certain.

My husband got a password this morning, but we haven't been able to sign in to use it. Only even gotten onto their site one time and it just was hanging no matter how many times I tried. Very frustrating. Would have been better to have set the times tickets would be available and then release them in blocks, instead of wasting everyone's time like this. I hope the White House chooses a vendor who can handle the traffic next year. If we aren't lucky enough to finally get tickets this year, we'll try again in 2010.

Please, everyone complaining here, leave a COMMENT on the White House website! No need to be nasty, just state the facts and how frustrating it is. (And the person who posted about the Wimbledon system...might be good to let them know about that, too!)

I have been trying all day and no luck with getting tickets..this has got to be the worse experience of all times..

This whole process is ridiculous. Everything can NOT be fair. Should we make the people in California wait in a raffle to go to Disney or the beach? They are blessed to live there and we can’t take away their benefits of living in that area. People who live on the East coast can’t help it if they are blessed to live near or in DC.
I hope Michelle is waiting on line for tickets for herself and her kids like the rest of us since she wants this to be fair for everyone.

Did any one get the tickets after 4pm

Re: Help

Got a kick out of thinking about Michelle waiting online for tickets. Well, she has the time.

why should she?, she lives there, its her house
it is fustration but bad mouthing them doesn't make anyone get tickets any easier
I have been tryign all day, lets just be patiet and if we dont, there always next year!

Well, let's HOPE they are available after "work hours!" They shouldn't penalize those of us working to pay the taxes that will support all this socialization and fairness! That wouldn't be "fair."

I don't think the site has been up again since it came up briefly around 2:15pm. I've been checking every couple of minutes.

RE: zimika

Um...find a sense of humor and hold onto it. :)

I seriously doubt anyone here was thinking Michelle O. would REALLY be sitting online trying to get tickets to the Egg Roll! GEEZ!

I have been trying all day to get tickets, like others here. I've been close a couple of times, but never gotten all the way through. A surprising result of this is now I feel much more pessimistic about the Obama Administrations ability to fix our country, when they can mess up a simple Egg Roll so badly. I don't like to think of myself as being so petty, but those are my feelings right now.

Re:WD

umm, take your own advice
I was just showing how "funny" that post really was

definitely knew it was a joke

Why all the complaining? I too have been trying to get tickets but I don't think the idea is ridiculous... I am coming from Alaska and will continue to try all day. It is afterall, only 12:20 AST...

Well I have been trying sine 12am with no luck and now I have to go get my son from daycare. If anyone gets lucky and feels generous I would live 2 tickets for me and my son.

I'll try again when I get back.

Please send me some ticket .

Ok I have to say, this is better than waiting out in the rain for hours to be told to go home. At least we are inside. And those of us who have NEVER been to an Egg Roll appreciate having a CHANCE to get tickets. It's a lottery, which means the website will be down frequently INTENTIONALLY and only certain people will get lucky. It's timing out because there are millions of people trying to access. This is a kids event with limited tickets, I think some of you are overreacting just a little bit. The administration is not doomed for failure because they can't give everyone in the country tickets to the White House Easter Egg Roll. Geez!

Re:AlsoAnoymous

Agree 1000 %

I must say this whole thing as really united a few moms and dads across the country into chatting with each other on all these blogs. It is kind of cool. I'm having a ball reading everyones comments.

anyone get tickets since 3:00 p.m.?

It would have taken me about the same time to camp out overnight than to have spent 8+ hours today.

agreed, lighten up

Re:AlsoAnonymous

I really do agree with you. It's easy to overreact, however, when you've "Reloaded" a website more times in one day than you had the entire past year. Or clicked hurriedly through 4 webpages, almost randomly choosing options with the hope of getting tickets only to have the website stall on the last page.

Ultimately, I guess it's the idea that someone thought that this was a system that needed "fixing", and that those smart people were going to make it "better." It doesn't feel better to me, is all I'm saying.

I got tickets around 2:45! I can't believe it. I spent the entire day trying (I even posted here earlier that I didn't get them) and the server timed out when I was going through the process but I just used the back button and did it again, and it went through. Managed to get 6 tickets total. I AM SO EXCITED and I wish everyone else luck in your quest, just keep at it.

The part about this that really stinks is that a few years ago I did stand in line, I got tickets for 12:45. The day of the Roll it rained so hard that the Park Rangers decided to close the roll due to the amount of damage that the kids were doing to the lawn. They decided to close it at 12:30, so I got as close as lining up to go on up, but I have actaully been able to go, I was really hopping that this would be the year, but after 10 hours of trying I don't think so. FOr everyone that got tickets I hope that you all have a good time, for those as frustrated as me, go to the White House Web site and tell them about it - politely! I suggested using Ticket Master, we have all heard stories about concerts selling out in 7 minutes, Ticket Master is set up to deal with this sort of volume, this little rinky dink operation in Texas obviously is not.

Does anyone know if there will be some kind of announcement when they run out of tickets? Or are we to keep trying until midnight. This is sooo frustrating!

How much are the tickets?

They're free, if you can get them.

Now really why would the first lady, one of the event's hosts be on line for tickets! Can we stop being so ridiculous and catty. Really, if you have such disdain for the Obamas why even bother?

the washington post says the white house released a statement saying the site will be taken down when all of the tickets are gone.

This is crazy. Tried all day with negative results. The site keeps timing out.

Been at it all day... just getting the "check back later" message. How much are scalpers charging? I heard (or read maybe?) that these tickets are only valid to the person or group they are issued too. Not sure how that works, but it was intended (I think) to prevent scalpers.

Talk about frustrating. I ahve been trying since 5am and got in once at 2pm and then got kicked out! My husband took over and tried but to no avail! I will keep trying.

Still waiting...still trying...still unsuccessful however, as I play around on the computer (something I never get to do with two little ones in the house --but I told them mommy was on an important mission on the computer today!), I found this funny youtube video in which Bugs Bunny's opening jingle about easter eggs probably describes all of us on here right now! ;-)
Kate must be so happy she finished her article with "I'd love to hear from you if you've been successful in scoring tickets." -- many of us are not so successful in scoring tix but we seem to be having a grand old time on your page! :-)
Happy reloading/refreshing/back buttoning free ticket madness everyone!
I'm glad to make a place for people to share their experiences. You've all been helpful to each other, which is what community is all about....And of course I hope you'll stick around and make use of the rest of the blog!

Wow, this has been very frustrating. I, like others, have made it all the way to believing I had 5 tickets only to time out and lose my screen. I can't help but think this is what nationalized health care will feel like. Everyone in line to receive a free service/medical procedure that thousands of others need, only to have to wait and wait and wait and then maybe never receive because there is no possible way for our government to pay for all of our health care. I know Obama is the bomb and all, but he certainly does not have all the answers. In any event, I would rather stick to a model that was working where those who desired something (i.e. tickets to Egg Roll, etc), worked hard to receive it (i.e. stand in line), and then were rewarded for their efforts (i.e. receive tickets). This random act of fairness does not feel fair to me. I continue to feel as if Obama & Co. are just take, take, taking away from me and my family. I will have "hope," nonetheless.

I thought they were ending the sale at 5pm, but I am getting the same message that I have been seeing all day:

The ticket demand for the 2009 White House Egg Roll has been very high. We apologize for any difficulty in reserving tickets. If you did not receive a confirmation page then you were not able to successfully secure tickets at that time. Tickets will be available at various times during the day through the online ticketing system. If you were unable to order tickets, please try back later today.

Are they going to open it again? I don't think it has been opened since around 3pm, right?

I was able to select a group and time, then underneath it said "update order", i clicked on that but it didnt take me any further.... then at 2:30 i got in again, and again it took me to that step and then i couldnt get passed that screen,... am i supposed to click on something else other than update?

From Washington Post online article concerning "how will we know when they're out of tickets":

All tickets are expected to be released today. The site will be taken down once all the tickets are gone.

I've been on line for almost 12 hours. I think the intent to have kids for all over join in on the Easter egg roll was good, but not having a time posted as to when the tickets will be available is crazy. Don't know if I should leave the computer to go cook dinner, scared that I will miss the opportunity to even get the tickets. I'd rather camp out. At least u have a better idea if you had a chance.

It's the THRILL of the HUNT!

It's fun to read everyone's comments!

I commend the White House for jumping into automation. I don't see that the White House did a lot of this prior to Obama taking office. The heart is there, but the service isn't. It appears that the ticketing was done on the fly and the server, and the website couldn't handle the onslaught. I like the idea of staggering it through the day so that everyone has a chance to get tickets instead of all of the tickets going within minutes of the first log ons. Some of us have to work and can't sit at the computer waiting to hit the go button. It doesn't look like I'll be going with my kids and I am disappointed.

Suggestions for the future. Use an established vendor with a system prepared to handle the onslaught. It is frustrating getting to a page that looks like you're going to be successful only to be told that there are no tickets available and then clicking on a different slot, for a repeat of same. Worse, is waiting for a confirmation page, feeling successful, and then finding out the server timed out. When you back space, the tickets are offline again. Arrgh Charlie Brown. Don't show slots where there are no available seating. In fact, don't allow for picking. Most of us are prepared to wait the entire day, so as people request tickets, fill them in as they come. Start at 8:00am until they are all gone. Tell us when the ticketing will stop so that we can stop trying when there is no point. Right now I keep checking even though I'm sure the tickets must be all gone.

Has anyone had luck getting in after 2:30pm?

Ridiculous? Catty? It's just someone making a funny because they're frustrated.

And for some it's not about the Obamas, it's about the TRADITION at the White House that just happens to house them at the moment.

This has been a total nightmare. These tickets were supposed to be a gift for my little niece and nephew. What a joke!

6.5hrs and counting. At 2:30, My mom was able to select tickets for 2 adults and 3 kids only to have it time out on her. I haven't even been lucky enough to get that far. Still trying though. If we don't get tickets and the weather is nice we will just spend the day at the Zoo.

This would have been my first easter hunt with my son ..its being a total disaster and nightmare ... I am not sure the ticketing crew were well prepared at all .. I am very upset and frustrated ... I guess I would be going to Riverdale Baptist Church in Largo ...Thank alot :-(

Wow - lots of people here with a major sense of entitlement. That's why our country is going down the toilet. Nobody has promised any of you the right to these tickets.

I too have been online for about 10 hours trying to get through, and have timed out at the final screen numerous times. We're traveling 9 hours to see DC with our kids, 5 and 7. This would be an incredible experience for them, but we will all still have a great time seeing our capitol regardless.

To those of you have are complaining that this is the first time in 5 years you won't be able to go - tough beans. Give someone else a chance. This event should be for all Americans, not just those local to DC. I appreciate the effort to make this event available to a greater number of people.

Anyone traveling to DC for this event & *NOT* getting tickets:

You can STILL go to the Ellipse that day! They pass out free breakfast and have entertainment there and some freebies, too. It's not quite the same, but it's something. :) And you might even get lucky & get some tix from some generous soul with extras.

Someone sold 6 tickets on eBay for $700.

Please someone tell me that there is NO WAY another person can use your tickets once you get them. (Someone who has gotten their tickets...can you enlighten us as to any of that?)

It makes me SICK.

Yep. Those who have fast internet access or can afford $700 can go. That is ALL Americans, Bill R!

Bill calm down-- Just because you haven't been to the egg roll. I haven't been either but I'm not hate-n.

Relax and enjoy refreshing the site.

This is like a fishing tournament.

You can talk about "the big one that got away" all year.

I wish they could let us know if they are giving out tickets this evening or up until what time. I don't have the internet at home and I am putting in late hours at work waiting on these tickets.

I am glad that they decided to offer them online. Diversification is key in this country. Everyone should have equal playing grounds. For those who have been, at least you can enjoy the memories with your children. Something is better than nothing. We all should be greatful for every moment past and present. For those who don't get tickets (which may include me), we have something to evetually laugh at and look forward to next year and the year after.

Enjoy!!! :)

Anyone else have any luck in the last 4 hours? The page/link still works so I'm hoping there are still more tickets available.

Calm down Bill! Most people here are frustrated with a site that doesn't appear to be working properly or isn't designed to handle such a big load of traffic. Which is no surprise given the event! Not entitlement issues....

As for being local - I was born and raised in DC. Live nearby. These free WH events are our payback for dealing with you tourists!

Just kidding....well, kinda. ;-)

Let's not be so harsh. And let's not confuse entitlement with pure frustration. I too, have been online since 8AM and have gotten to the last page, waiting for that confirmation, only to be timed out. I'm grateful to have had this opportunity and to try for the tickets from the comfort of my home and not some soaking wet line in freezing cold rain after hours of travel. That said, I still don't feel as though saying that "independenttickets.com" was ill prepared for this, is coming from a sense of entitlement. Rather, shear frustration. I'd feel that way if it were for tickets for my favorite band or my kids having this incredible opportunity. Just stating the apparent.

I actually made it to the site twice to the page that gives the security code. I was hopeful that I would get the tickets but then the system timed me out. Very frustrating!!!

I cannot believe this!!! check out this link!!
http://cgi.ebay.com/White-House-Easter-Egg-Roll-2009-6-Tickets-March-13_W0QQitemZ290305821178QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Tickets_all_in_one?hash=item290305821178&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50

I put in the codes (yes, codes) and got, "Sorry, there are not enough tickets for that combination" or whatever it was. You should NOT have to get that far to find out the tickets aren't even really available. DUMB.

Tickets on ebay for $979.00 ha ha I don't want to go that bad.

Alexis....go report it to eBay. I did. Unfortunately, someone will probably buy it before eBay gets around to pulling it. (Besides...it's money for eBay, so why should they?)

Yep. What a FAIR system this is. I have lost all HOPE and I am not liking the CHANGE. :P

Has anyone had any success since 2:30ish? that is the last time I thought I had the tickets only to time out, etc.

I'm wondering if I should go bathe the kids and proceed with bedtime. Wouldn't that be terrible if the minute I leave the computer after 12 hours of monitoring they "sell" the remaining tickets!!!! Good luck to all! I'm hoping........ would be so fun to see my 6, 5, and 3 year old playing on the White House lawn this year !!! Hope it works out for everyone. BTW, I understand all the frustration, this has not been a positive experience. Surprisingly, when I did stand in line 4 years ago in the cold while hubby was in a DC hotel with the kiddos, I had a blast! I met some great people and it was AMAZING to be camping out just beyond the glow of our nation's beautiful White House. I agree with a previous poster, it's about the tradition. And, I'm sure it's painful for those who have made this part of their annual Easter celebration for years realize they will not be able to attend this year. :(

Oh come on Josette, buy them.

STIMULATE the economy!!!

On the plus side, I can post whenever I want here! :)

And those 979 tickets....notice that the seller is "Cosmos Tickets."

Nope. No scalpers keeping good honest Americans from getting their FREE tickets this year!

Sorry, but the old "standing in line" method really did keep the scalping down. I'm sure there was SOME, but without the major "lag" time between ticket obtainability (or email code...) and the date, there was no true opportunity for scalping. And you could not get away with it AT the event.

What is the address you guys are using to get through. I have tried all day and the only thing I see is the whitehouse page with the easter egg roll directions. Do you guys just keep refreshing that page and eventually see a place to purchase?

Here is the direct link again: http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/

I am giving them until 8. If it doesn't come up before 8, I am giving up. Guess I will try again next year. Glad I didn't tell my grandkids.

Have a wonderful Easter everyone & goodluck.

You guys just keep refreshing this link?

http://09wheggroll.frontgatetickets.com/

Hey guys, I'm like everyone else out there getting kicked off and still no tix. and have been scanning the blogs. Thanks for responding to Bill here is what he posted on another site and my reply.

I have not seen any action also since 3pm. Same message. The evening news was not very helpful except thay said some tickets are saved for DC public schools and military.

reply Bill R (not verified)
at 15:15 on March 26th, 2009

I for one am glad the tickets are being distributed online. We're traveling to DC with our kids, 5 and 7, and this is the only way we would have a chance at getting tickets. Granted, the process is very frustrating. This is an event that should be available to all Americans, not just those that live within the DC area.

To those who are whining that this is the first time in 5 years they won't get tickets, too da#* bad. Give some others a chance. My $.02.

0 reply sallyb (not verified)
at 15:43 on March 26th, 2009

Stop posting your cuss words on every blog. Do you have traditions in your home town? This is our's. While yes it should be offered to the country, it should of not been taken away from us. Many Washingtonians tradition of camping out have been replaced with this frustrating lack of competence.

IT'S UP GO GO GO GO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I got tickets.. Good luck all.

4kids + 2 adults

it is up hurry

FINALLY!!!!!OMG!!!!! I live in California and have been trying to get tickets for 8 hours!!!!! I will be in the DC area over Easter and thought this would be a great idea to take my family to. WOW!! KEEP TRYING!!! JUST KEEP REFRESHING THE SITE!!!
WOOHOO!!

Just got em - the website is up, I actually got a confirmation number!

Third time is the charm! Thank goodness I finally got through... You do have to do it as soon as you hit the page... and if you can take the time to sign up before they take the site down again it makes it faster to get to confirmation.

They are, as of 7:41 EDT, no longer available.

All Gone

it's over....can't believe it...i was back on the site and ordering the tix and then it was over...big bummer

I tried all day. I got all the way to the verification screen each time they opened the sale. I think they opened it only three times. This is what the new screen reads:Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Please continue to check this website for important updates regarding the Easter Egg Roll.

Children age ten and under, along with their families, are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House.

I think I go them

FYI this just came up Sorry Guys if you missed out but it has been a blast

Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Please continue to check this website for important updates regarding the Easter Egg Roll.

Children age ten and under, along with their families, are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House.

there is a different message now, i think it is over. what do you think?

It's over now....here's the message:
Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Please continue to check this website for important updates regarding the Easter Egg Roll.

Children age ten and under, along with their families, are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House.

don't know if my last comment went through- but it is all over now. I was in the middle of ordering them, putting the password in and it just ended. Big bummer...

The website just came up...it's over no more tickets are available!

the website says tickets are no longer available...

And its back down again already... And this time it says that there are no more tickets to give.

Congrats to everyone who managed to snag them! (And shame on all those who got them to sell them!)

They are gone. I cannot believe it. I went upstairs to help kids brush teeth. came back down and checked, got thru to selecting and then to this message:

Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Please continue to check this website for important updates regarding the Easter Egg Roll.

Children age ten and under, along with their families, are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House.

What I've learned thru this process: "Hope is not a strategy." I would have rather had the opportunity to stand in line... bummer.

Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event.

Yeah its over.

I have never been and never win anything so Im pretty excited.
Sorry to those of you who didn't get through but don't worry I think we want them more than our kids.
Take Care

The three hundredth time wasn't the charm for me, sadly. I got to the ticketing page for the first time, past the confirmation screen, and then there were no tickets available for any time. Then suddenly the website turned over to the "There are no more tickets" message.

I wasted a lot of hours for nothing today--quite disappointing. My daughter is sad that she won't get to go to a party at Barack Obama's house, but we will try again next year. At least she is young enough that she will enjoy it if we get to go some other year soon.

For the third time today (8,2,7)-- got in-- started selections and got "no tickets left in this section".

Site now reads,
"Tickets are no longer available for the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll. Thank you for visiting us and your interest in the event. Please understand that the demand far exceeds the capacity for this event. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Please continue to check this website for important updates regarding the Easter Egg Roll.

Children age ten and under, along with their families, are invited to attend. There must be at least one child ten years old or under and no more than two adults per group. Tickets are required for every attendee, including small children and infants, to enter the South Lawn of the White House."

I am beyond disappointed. We have never been (live 3 hours away). All year, I have planned to sleep out and do this. My son is 7-- don't know if he will still be into it next year.

I guess the silver lining-- under the old rules, this was the last year he could go. Under new rules, they just ned to be under 10-- so I have 2-3 more years of trying.

wow. i am seriously disappointed after trying all day to get these tickets!! I think they should have done a lottery so we didn't have to work all day for nothing! Well at least I don't have to sit here and refresh anymore!

Looks like tickets are gone. I got on the ticket site for w few minutes (didn't get tickets' and after trying for a few minutes I then got the message that tickets are gone. Anyone know if the ticket-less event on the Ellipse is really going to happen? Why wouldn't that info be on the White house website?

it has timed out again, but I called to verify that I did indeed get tickets, and I asked if there were still tickets and I was told that as soon as they ran out it would be posted. Good luck gang, Kate this blog was great, it helped with my frustration to know that I was not alone in my attempts. I hope that you use our comments to write a great article for the Sun!

i really appreciate charm city moms for giving us a place to come together today. even though I did not get tickets, it was more fun talking to everyone and i felt better about the whole situation, not so lost and alone.

I just received 4 tickets. The site now states, there is no more tickets.

Well its all over now. I have to say that I really hope they choose a better online method next year. I am sad that I won't be able to take my kids to the easter egg roll. I know that we can go see the museums or the zoo, but I remember how much I enjoyed the egg roll when I was young and had wanted to share that experience with them now that they are toddlers. I guess I still have more years to try at least.

I have been trying to get tickets all day. This has been such an emotional rollercoaster. I could never get in, just being told to "check back later..." I tried around 7:30ish and finally got in and got 5 TICKETS. I couldn't believe it, I really thought it was over- glad I held out hope. For those of you who have given up a whole day for your children just to see the joy in their eyes and were successful- cheers to you. For those that weren't, I’m sure your children will appreciate your efforts.

I got 4 tickets tonight. I'm really sorry for those who didn't get tickets. My hands were shaking when I finally got through. I didn't have time to think about the time... I just clicked as fast as possible. I received the email confirmation.

Now I am wondering... since my kids are age9 and 15... does my 15 year-old count as a child or an adult ticket?

Hey ... check it out. Government employees are even getting into the act! They have a stable job, we pay their salaries, we pay for the Egg Roll through taxation, and now they are making more money off us! Yay!

Reply to: sale-rrhmy-1093706319@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Date: 2009-03-26, 7:40PM EDT

I was fortunate to get six tickets to the easter egg roll. I work for the gov't so ofcourse families get first pick. I have no intentions on going so here I am!!!!

I have six tickets for sale I can meet you at a subway station close to the white house on my lunch break. Ur pick I like to jog so I have no issue meeting you maybe at a location near you..

But im open for offers. I really dont care but money talks unless its a family that I feel is just trying to have a good time and not brag about it to your co-workers. I HATE THAT..

I dont care about race or creed or your political stand or where you stand on the hill. ASK YOUR CONGRESSMAN LOL.

Im just a person who has a hot ticket....

I'm really gratified that you all came to visit and share your experiences with the ticket hunt today. Look for a follow-up post tomorrow!

Tried for 12 hours. Since 5:00 am LA time. Nothing - Got in a few times and got all the way to the confirmation page and then bounced out. The company front gate was not ready to handle the amount of hits it got today. Really Really frustrating. The biggest problem is we are going to Washington from LA and where going two days earlier to get tickets for my daughter. Had it all set - Two weeks before these guys change the rules and then use a worthless company to do it. Just like everything in Washington these days everything done in haste and then afterword te worry about what happens. And they say LA is bad. At least we would use a company that can handle a large event, at least bigger than Joe's BBQ in Austin

Tried all day but to no avail. I can accept that. But why have the system allow me to get through 6 or 7 different times, enter the scrambled word codes, choose the amount of tickets, and then tell me that they cannot give that many tickets for that section. Even when I put in 1 adult and 1 child (not what I wanted) it couldn't handle that LARGE request amount. How could there not have been tix at 9 am when people just got them at 7:30pm. The ticketing system was terrible. If you get through to the point where they're letting you choose what tickets you want and how many, it should go all the way through. Have fun to those who got tickets and are actually going. Rotten eggs to those who are scalping the tix. May the Easter Bunny leave droppings throughout your home!

And remember....even if you HAVE tickets, it can be cancelled AT ANY TIME. If the weather is terrible, they will either cancel it ahead of time or MID-STREAM either for safety or lawn reasons.

Wouldn't you hate to spend $979 and not get in?

Or...you're flying cross-country (really?!) for this event....and it's cancelled.

I have been up since 12am EST trying to get tickets. I became quite familiar with the web page since I spent almost 12 HOURS trying to get these tickets. It was worse than sitting outside in the snow (yes, I was there 2 years ago when it snowed!). I understand the desire to automate it. There just has to be a better way than this!

And I totally agree with the poster who said that they don't punish people for living in Orange County and wanting to go to Disneyland. They get discount tickets for being close to it. We live in DC! One of the perks of dealing with horrible traffic, rude people, and major crowds is to be able to do stuff like this.

People travel to Disneyland all the time. They can certainly travel here and plan in advance to camp out for tickets.

Ithink it is a shame that planners did not think of a system where disadvantaged children could aprticipate. I realize supply and demand, but my goodness. I am a Marine Corps Vet and do not think my children are more deserving than others. I regret being foolish enough to promise an event,not knowing whether it would have downfalls......and it did. I have been online since 1130 pm the night of the 25th,oh well.

Does anyone know if the person that ordered the tickets must be one of the persons in the group? I was able to get tickets for out of town friends but read in a post on a different site that ID would be required (I only saw one post though). Thanks.

Kate - Thanks for the venue to share our thoughts. While I don't feel entitled to tickets, it is a bit disconcerting to learn that the people in charge of ticketing had no idea "Ticket demand for the 2009 White House Egg Roll (would be) exceptionally high"! My heart really goes out to all of the kids around the country (mine included) who missed out this year. It would be nice to see a lottery next year with a PRE-registration (as suggested in a previous post). By the way, in an effort to reduce the number of tickets nabbed by scalpers, do you think it would help to require a street address during a pre-registration period? (This would probably require mailing a PIN number or something similar via the postal service to truly be effective, but it would allow the lottery software to limit each physical address one set of tickets. Besides, I imagine the USPS might be willing to give the president and first lady a discount on the postage).

I agree...this was one heck of a roller coaster. I got in at 8 and made it to the last dang screen and then the site timed out and said the site was down. I could never get that far again, and got basically nowhere at 2. I did make an acct. at 2 though. Then, I happened to refresh around 7:30 or so and the site was up. I breezed through the screens (no delays) so I must have literally gotten lucky and refreshed just when they activated. When I saw the confirmation screen appear, my thought was "holy s***, it actually worked". I was livid from this morning and from all of the wasted time, but this help a WHOLE lot. I really empathize with those who didn't get any as I thought I'd be there too. FYI, I did send complaint letters this morning to both the ticket company and the White House as that made me feel at least a little better. FYI, I got 6 tickets for 11:30 and my wife and I are looking forward to taking my son, niece, and nephews. We've never been, and wouldn't have gone if it weren't for the internet option. Perhaps next year they can do a mix with some tix for campers and some online (with a better ticket provider!!). See you all on the 13th!

Thank you for all of the wonderful information that everyone posted!! I was finally able to get tickets when they opened around 7:30pm. Hope everyone has a Happy Easter!

Why all the belly aching, I got mine no problem. Seem high demand and limited tickets made for a sold out event. That is common with online ticket offers. Boohoo whiners. Geez.

Frustration turned to Joy:
My journey started out at 12 a.m. EST 3/26/09 to secure 6 tickets for my family for our 1st experience with the White House Annual Easter Egg Roll.
Like most individuals on this blog and others, my sister and I planned to spend the overnight weekend before the egg roll to get tickets. We planned the whole "camping out" excursion from before the election in November 2008. I was on the whitehouse.gov for 3 1/2 hours then finally decided to go to bed so that I could arise at least before I went to work to try again. I called my sister to let her know that she should try before she went to work as well, which was before 8 a.m. She called me around eight to say that the site had not gone live yet, she could only access the Whitehouse site. I was able in between getting dressed go on the Whitehouse site around 9 a.m. and I still could not go any further than that. It did not have any "click here," link. I got so engrossed that I continued and before I knew it, it was a little after 10 a.m. and I noticed the you could go to the new site. I immediately "click here" and the site came up. I tried to order from the main page, but ended up having to "register" because it would not let me go access the site unless I did. I immediately created an account and went to my inbox to retrieve the new password. Once I retrieved it and went directly back to the site, I enter my email and password and accessed the site, however, there was nothing to "buy" as indicated on the site. So I browsed around looking to see how you get your tickets for about 30-40 minutes. After which, the site automatically stated that I have to "check back later." I was like "whatever" at that point. So, I looked at the time and was like I am seriously late for WORK! However, because I was determined to try to get these tickets from my family I soldiered on…. At this time it was about 11:15 or so and I was like I know they are not going to bring the site up because, the President was having his "e-Town-Hall" live mtg. Therefore, I tried to no avail to access the ticket site anyhow thinking that just maybe they would have it up simultaneously. NOT. Time went on ended up listing to his whole "speech and answer" session, thinking they must bring it up after he goes off the air. So once that happened low and behold… NOTHING!! The now familiar phrase of, DUE TO HEAVY VOLUME…….CHECK BY LATER." This happened for another 1 1/2 hours. All of which I was checking every 1 to 2 minutes (seriously). 2:20-25 p.m. site comes live again, I immediately entered email/password clicked go got to the 1st screen click the time I had wanted and click continue (red flag came up) then I had to dropdown menu that it was the 6 tickets that I wanted(even though it already said that). Click continue as fast I could, came to the scramble security code screen read/typed as fast as I could clicked continue again, came to the 3rd screen for deliver confirmation clicked continue got to the 4th and final screen check the "I attest this is true" box, and hit as fast as I could the enter button to purchase! Well, I was literally screaming at this point because I hit the purchase and it was "processing." So I was like "I am home free!" NOT NOT NOT the screen timed out several times and then some. I had to hit the back button at least 10 times, and then it took me to the "holding room." Which I was there for at least 40 minutes (NO JOKE). I was like, "NO WAY!" This is not happening, however, it was. Make long story short. I hit the back button and the initial ordering screen came up with my initial order for 6 tickets and the time. So I was like, "great." At least I still might have a chance to get them because technically, I was stilled "logged in." My sister called me and said the site is not even coming up on her end she was getting a "No website found" message. I told her where I was at in the ballgame. She was like, "just hang in there." Well after 2 1/2 hours it automatically kicked me out of the system, which immediately after, most of us know the statement, "CHECK BACK LATER!" That went on for approximately, (NO KIDDING) 31/2 hours. However, during that time (YES, I Stayed home). I was constantly, literally, constantly in my address bar going to 09whegg……com. Until 7:22 p.m. I kid you not; my fingers were constantly clicking on that site the whole time. And every now and again, I would open a new window to Google "white house egg roll 2009 online problems," for I knew I could not be the only one FRUSTRATED. Walla..I found this site. Read a few comments and then got back to clicking away because I didn’t want to come so far knowing the hour was getting late in the evening and the probably would come up at any moment. Well they did and I immediately signed on (because by this time VERY familiar w/the process), clicking away as fast as my little fingers would go praying all the way and my little girl went in her room (unbeknownst to me, until later) and prayed also. I went from step 1 to 4 in about 30 second (NO KIDDING) and immediately after pressing "purchase" my CONFIRMATION NUMBER CAME UP!!! YES YES YES, I thanked the Lord literally, yelled, screamed, jumped with happiness and frustration and was relived that my journey ended with JOY!

Wow...I was trying from 7:55 am...was in at the very second they were released each of the three times...got in and went through the entire process each time to get the message on confirmation that the number of tickets I was asking for was not available...I did the same thing with every number theyy had available...each time got the scrambled letter combination I had to enter and continued to get the same message. I am real happy the ebay scalpers got the tickets and not my two kids. I was prepared to stay for 3 days in line...this way just let the savy ticket scalpers have their day.

My problem with this is that this is not equal opportunity EVENT as it should be under democratic and just system that our new president is trying to project. He is really trying to make it right and just for everyone so unfortunately that evnet missed that goal miserably.

1. NOT YOUR EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HERE:
It was not a lottery with equal access for everyone. If it was ment to be equally accessible it should have been done so and it could have been done with ease.. it was enough to create forms during few days so everyone could access them with equal chance and. People could fill them in their names and then await really lottery.

2. HOW TO EASAILY AVOID SECOND MARKET OF THE TICKETS:
Selling tickets IN YOUR name would makint them non transfferable exclude any chance of abuse and resell as it is going on right now and nobody even is sure if any of those tickets were sold even to normal people like you and me or were they distributed fairly or just will be now sold out on the second market by those who had ways to access them and get them. This was not screened service and nobody knows how it was done and where the tickets really went to..

I AM ALL FOR MAKING THE TICKETS AVAILABLE TO THE ENTIRE COUNTRY BUT FOR NOW IT IS JUST MOCARY OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY. Something has to be done because for now it only created haos, frustration and dissapointment.

Fair is fair. lets make real lottery next time like with visas.. there is no mess with this .. and there is no chance for abuse. Government has systems in place so this could be just mirrored here..

where is the will there is the way.
and there seem to be so much good will in our president and yet this way is just not the way. lets hope for better next time.

all of us who did get to some place during this lottery and got kicked out by the system's time out and other bugs.. just are emotionally scared.

I don't really think anyone could use tickets that were bought on ebay. I had to give my name and address when I got the tickets online.

And I would imagine, as a minimum, that White House security would require ID to match the name and address given when the tickets were ordered online. People may buy tickets on ebay, but they are just wasting their money.

Hi Ladies...I just wanted to make a post and give advise for next year if they do it the same way. I too was frustrated with the process...I was on the computer from 10am-2pm...pissed wondering when they would put the tickets out again. But I decided I wasn't going to leave my desk until I got the tickets...I was constantly...hitting the "back" button and clicking on the link to get back in for hours...and finally at 2:15ish...it came back...and I did have trouble with the site trying to crash on me...but i kept hitting refresh...and going back and hitting continue until it went through. I too was thanking GOD...I was able to get the tickets and jumping up and down...lol.

So my advise for next year is...don't leave you computer...keep going back and forth every minute...take the day off if you can...have someone else watch the kids...b/c every second counts. I told my co-worker to do that for the last round...she stayed by the computer for over an hour last night...and she got 6 tickets around 7:30ish...

I know it sucks and it is disappointing if you didn't get tickets...but try again next year and i'm sure you'll get them.

This was beyond unfair and the system was beyond broke. To those that actually got tickets kudos and you were a charmed few. We spent from midnight the 26th till the site stated all the tickets were gone, almost 19 hours and NOTHING. That was with me trying, my wife and our oldest child all on separate computers. Please explain to me how this process made the tickets "more available". The old system was not broke, you show up you pretty much were assured tickets as long as you didn’t wait till the last minute. This was not thought through, internet distribution does NOT work; ask any parent who has ever tried to get Hanna Montana tickets online. All this was and is an exercise in frustration and disappointment.

Wow, I'm really late at trying to obtain tickets for my Grandson to attend. He is such a wonderful child and I would make a trip from LA for this event. He is 10 years old so this would be his last oppurtunity to attend. Do you think they will offer additional tickets??

It sounds unlikely, but if I hear anything, I'll post it.

What do people without computers do?? Guess we are all left out. Whats new??? No, I am at a friends computer, and only just today April 3, heard about the tickets. Thanks for the CHANGE