If you have yet to receive an invitation to Hollywood’s biggest night, you can still watch the Oscars in style. The 89th annual Academy Awards take place on February 26, and plenty of venues throughout Chicago will be hosting viewing parties. It's the perfect excuse to walk the red carpet (black tie and all) or just enjoy this year’s ceremony with someone other than your cat. At the very least, you'll have plenty of strangers to argue about the merits of La La Land with.
Davis Theater: Walk down the red carpet and into the newly renovated Davis Theater for an exclusive Oscar-themed event. Janet Davies of ABC7 will host this viewing party, which includes drinks from Moet & Chandon and Half Acre Beer, dishes from celebrity chefs and Oscar ballots. Proceeds from the event will benefit the nonprofit Common Threads. (Davis Theater, 4614 N Lincoln Ave, 6pm. $100–$150.)
North Bar: Dress up or dress down at the Arts of Life Associate Board's third annual OscArts of Life fundraiser. This year's Academy Award-winning event will feature a “best dressed” movie-themed costume contest. (North Bar, 1637 W North Ave, 6–11pm. $10.)
Logan Theatre: Get wrapped up in the glitz and glamour of the Oscars in the Logan Theatre Lounge. Not only will you get to watch the Academy Awards with other film buffs, you'll also play trivia, try your luck at red carpet bingo and fill out a ballot. (Logan Theatre, 2646 N Milwaukee Ave, 6pm. No cover.)
Venue One: Chicago Scene magazine and the Life Creative Network aren't hosting just any Oscar viewing party. This fundraising event will also showcase the launch of a new Chicago TV network, LCN. Proceeds from the event will benefit A Safe Haven charity. (Venue One, 1034 W Randolph St, 6:30pm–midnight. $49–$1,500.)
Conrad Chicago: Get transported to the Conrad Chicago's rendition of Hollywood at this musical-themed viewing party. The event will take place in the Conrad's 19th floor atrium, where guests will have stunning views of the Chicago skyline while they show off their best La La Land-inspired outfits. (Conrad Chicago, 101 E Erie St, 6:30–10:30pm. $75.)
Gene Siskel Film Center: Chicago's longest-running viewing party is returning to the Gene Siskel Film Center, and this year's event will focus on food, fashion and film. You'll also be able to walk the red carpet with co-hosts Tommy Walton (MasterChef star and fashion designer) and NK Gutiérrez (actress, filmmaker and host of The Soul Salon). (Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N State St, 6:30pm. $100–$200.)
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