You’ve recovered from the shock of Hangover star Bradley Cooper being nominated for Best Actor, and heard all about how Jessica Chastain is upset over Zero Dark Thirty’s Kathryn Bigelow being passed over for Best Director. You have your own opinions on the Oscar contenders, so we’ve rounded up a few places where you can enjoy disagreeing with the Academy’s choices over cocktails.
If you have no idea what’s going on with this year’s Oscars, not to worry. The AMC Loews Georgetown 14 is having a Best Picture Showcase, a one-day marathon event on Saturday where you can watch all nine nominated films for $60. Buy tickets either online or at the box office.
Check out DC Film Society‘s annual Oscar viewing party at the Arlington Cinema ’N’ Drafthouse. Hosted by local film critics Bill Henry and Tim Gordon, the event will have a Predict the Winners contest, a trivia contest, and a silent auction on items such as gift certificates and promotional movie souvenirs. There will also be autographed film posters and DVDs (like a Friends With Kids poster signed by director/actress Jennifer Westfeldt). Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or online. 6:30 PM.
Town Danceboutique hosts its eighth annual Oscar gala, Glamour, Glitter, & Gold, with a raffle and a silent auction that benefits Reel Affirmations, the annual LGBT film festival. Tickets start at $15 and are available online. 7 PM.
Lounge around in your pajamas at the Snuggle with the Stars party at US Navy Memorial Burke Theater, sponsored by DC Shorts. The party is officially associated with the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, and you can watch the broadcast on a two-story HD screen while snacking on Whole Foods goodies and sipping soda concoctions by local “mixtress” Gina Chersevani. Tickets cost $50 and include an open bar, a buffet, and a swag bag. Sleepwear is encouraged, but not required. Tickets are available online. 6 PM.
If a dressier shindig is more your style, rent a tux and buy tickets for the Art Soiree’s (strictly) black-tie Oscar affair at the Georgetown Ritz-Carlton. Enjoy specialty themed cocktails by local mixologists at the cash bar, an Oscars pool, and multiple viewing screens. You’ll also enjoy the St. Charles String Quartet playing songs from your favorite Oscar-nominated films. Tickets are $40. 7 PM.
Oscars night just wouldn’t feel right without prizes, so head over to Commissary in Logan Circle and start the night off by walking the red carpet. Drink cocktails inspired by the nominated movies and try some of the restaurant’s famous truffle popcorn. Fill out your complimentary Oscar ballot and collect your prize when you predict correctly. Free. 5 PM until midnight.
Helix Lounge is also rolling out the red carpet on Academy Awards night with its (free) annual Oscars Happy Hour featuring flat-screen TVs and specialty Oscar-themed cocktails like the Honest Abe, Red Carpet Cosmo, and Zero Dirty Talk. Available from 5 to 11:30 PM.
Hold your breath for potentially controversial speeches and heartwarming Hollywood camaraderie with fellow viewers at Buffalo Billiards. The broadcast will be featured on multiple televisions, and you can play pool, darts, shuffleboard, or shoot hoops while awaiting the winner of Best Actress.
Another no-fee option is Nellie’s, which is opting for something a little more low-key this year. The U Street bar will be showing the Oscars, but not going overboard—which could be great. Order a bucket of corn dogs and celebrate the fact that you don’t have to squeeze into a tight evening gown.
Finally, for an exclusive party, listen to 94.7 Fresh FM until late Friday night to win tickets for the station’s Oscars viewing event at EDGAR Bar & Kitchen in the Mayflower Renaissance Hotel, sponsored by Moët & Chandon. Hosted by The Tommy Show, the party starts at 7 PM and includes free drinks and food as well as a swag bag. All attendees will be ticket winners. Dress to impress.
