The Obama family has officially left the White House

Former President Barack Obama and his family have officially departed Washington, resuming their lives as private citizens.

The Obamas departed the U.S. Capitol via helicopter shortly after the conclusion of Donald Trump's inaugural ceremonies, a tradition that stretches back to President Gerald Ford.

Obama is expected to first make remarks to staff at Joint Base Andrews in suburban Maryland before hopping on a government flight to Palm Springs, Calif., a favorite vacation spot of the family’s, for some time off.

The family will ultimately return to Washington, taking up residence in the ritzy Kalorama neighborhood less than two miles Northwest of the White House. The Obamas said they plan to stay there while their younger daughter Sasha finishes high school nearby.

More: Complete Inauguration Day 2017 live updates

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The couples greeted each other on Inauguration Day.

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