The three-day Democratic National Convention that will nominate U.S. President Barack Obama for a second White House term begins Tuesday in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Party officials spent Monday making last-minute preparations at the city's convention center for the opening night ceremonies, which include a speech by first lady Michelle Obama. Her husband will accept the nomination Thursday night during a nationally-televised speech held at the 74,000-seat outdoor stadium that is home to the National Football League's Carolina Panthers.

Vice President Joe Biden will also make his acceptance speech as Mr. Obama's running mate on Thursday.

Other major speakers at the convention include former president Bill Clinton, who will formally place Mr. Obama's name up for nomination before the delegates Wednesday night.

The party staged a pre-convention festival Monday in downtown Charlotte that featured Grammy-nominated R&B singer Janelle Monae and Oscar-winning actor Jeff Bridges.

The November presidential election pits Mr. Obama against Republican nominee Mitt Romney. Recent public opinion polls indicate a very close race.