Democratic Gov. Dannel Malloy capped off the inauguration day for his second term with an inaugural ball Wednesday night in Hartford.

Thousands of people attended the gala at the Connecticut Convention Center. Malloy and his family entered the event after state leaders walked in first. The event included live music, dancing and dinner.

Previously, Malloy gave his State of the State speech, saying that he wants to make transportation -- from highways to trains to bike paths -- a priority. "We know that transportation and economic growth are bound together," he said. "States that make longterm investments in their infrastructure can have vibrant economies for generations. States that don't, will struggle. It is that simple."

His transportation push was well-received, garnering support from both sides of the aisle. Still, political analysts believe differences may arise when Democrats and Republicans have to decide how to pay for the infrastructure upgrades.

Earlier in the day, Malloy was sworn in at the state armory for his second term. "Today, I say to my fellow citizens, we might not always agree on the details, but we can agree that we want our children to inherit a better Connecticut than the one we were given," he said at the ceremony.

The governor's longtime friend, state Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald, administered the oath.

Malloy's day started with a festive parade, which included a band circling the capitol and a 19-gun salute to mark the occasion.

The constitutional officers also took their oaths today, as did all state senators and state representatives.