Special Report: Kerry Party Plans

Judging by the mood, the smell of victory is in the air. Preparations for a big party are underway -- Bon Jovi is on the stage rehearsing, and chairs are set up in front of the stage for VIP guests.

There are 10,000 invited guests expected tonight, and another 20,000 public supporters. It will be a huge crowd in a very open area -- which has security swarming this place.

Heavy police presence combined Secret Service agents in Copley Square make for an intense venue.

John Boyle, Boston Police Dept.
"We are anticipating crowds in the Copley Square area larger than the average Tuesday night. At the end of the night, we could possibly have a president-elect here in Copley Square"

Bomb-sniffing dogs are brought in to sweep the area filled with journalists from around the world. One tent houses metal detectors – everyone and everything will go through before entering the secure zone.

Ted Carr, Director of Security Operations
"We have to think very carefully about how people get in here and how they get out. How we could respond if there is a problem. These are things we have spent a great deal of time on and we feel really good about it."

Cameras -- perched on top of buildings -- give security a bird’s-eye-view of the area. Sharp-shooters will also be in position.

The area is cleared late in the day for one final security sweep before everyone takes their place on the stage – where the next president of the United States could be standing tonight.

Ted Carr, Director of Security Operations
"We feel confident we have a safe environment, including the candidate."

Everyone is starting to get ready for a party – and hoping they will be hearing a victory speech from John Kerry tonight.