This week, with just under 500 days until the 2020 presidential election, the first round of Democratic debates begins. And since 20 candidates qualified, the event has been separated into two nights of debates, with 10 speakers each night. Wednesday’s round includes Cory Booker, Elizabeth Warren, and eight others. On Thursday, Bernie Sanders, Pete Buttigieg, and Joe Biden will be among the 10 debaters. The debates will air on MSNBC, NBC news, and Telemundo starting at 9 p.m. each night; you can also apparently watch them on each of those platform’s websites for free.
But of course, a bevy of D.C. restaurants and organizations are hosting watch parties, complete with food and drink specials. Check out these options:
Recently-opened Park View bar Smitty’s will have a watch party on both nights of the Democratic debate. Check out $8 cocktails, including a basil vodka tonic, cucumber-infused gin, and more. Beer on tap will also be available throughout the night for $6. (Smitty’s, Wednesday and Thursday, 9 p.m.-11 p.m., 21+)
The local theater Suns Cinema will be airing both nights of the Democratic debates on the big screen. The bar opens at 7 p.m., and it offers $3 snacks, as well as a wide variety of beer, wine, and sake. (Suns Cinema, Wednesday and Thursday, 8 p.m. doors)
The LBJ Washington Center will screen the debates at its Chinatown location. The event is free to attend, and food and beverages will be provided. (LBJ Washington Center, Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 p.m-11:30 p.m., FREE, registration required)
Columbia Heights dive Red Derby is holding watch parties both nights, with a big screen for customers to view the debates. The event page brags of “fun drink specials, games, and prizes” all night. And if you’re there at the Thursday debate, happy hour specials will be lasting all night. (Red Derby, Wednesday and Thursday, 9 p.m.-11 p.m., 21+)
The Network For Progress and DMV Grassroots Coordinating Committee are collectively hosting watch parties at the restaurant Local 16 on U Street NW. Before the debate begins, there are speakers and an opportunity to mingle with fellow viewers. In addition, the bar will have $5 drink and appetizer specials until 9 p.m. (Local 16, Wednesday and Thursday, June 26-27, 6 p.m.-11 p.m., 21+, RSVP online)
DC Young Democrats and the DC Democratic Party are hosting their Wednesday watch party and fundraiser at Haydee’s Restaurant in Mount Pleasant. The Thursday watch party and fundraiser will be at Busboys & Poets in Anacostia. Register online to attend. (Haydee’s Restaurant, Wednesday June 26, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.; Busboys & Poets Anacostia, Thursday June 27, 7 p.m.-11 p.m., donation of $10+ at registration suggested)
The Midlands beer garden is holding watch parties on both nights of the debate. The venue boasts five HDTVs, as well as two 100-inch HD projector screens. Pabst Blue Ribbon pints are on offer for $4; Thursday’s showing will be preceded by a performance from D.C. musician Jarreau Williams at 7 p.m. (The Midlands, Wednesday and Thursday, June 26-27, 9 p.m.-11 p.m., 21+)
Head over to Shaw’s Tavern on Florida Ave. NW to see the debate both nights. They’re offering $5 house wines and $5 Stoli flavored vodka. (Shaw’s Tavern, Wednesday and Thursday, June 26-27, 9 p.m.-11 p.m.)
The clothing and activism brand The Outrage on 14th Street is staying open late for the debates, and promising commentary and drinking games along with the viewing. (The Outrage, Wednesday and Thursday, June 26-27, 8 p.m.-11 p.m., registration required, 18+)
The H Street NE bar and restaurant The Big Board is hosting a watch party on Wednesday, complete with drink specials—including $5 Absolut vodka cocktails and draft beer—throughout the debate. Their full menu will be available until 9:50 p.m.; afterwards, their late night menu will be served until midnight. Seating is first come, first served, so you’ll probably want to get there early. (The Big Board, Wednesday June 26, 9 p.m.-12 a.m.)
