Democracy is, by definition, something a person cannot do alone—so why would you hole up in your living room to watch the Presidential debate all by yourself either? Plus, if you’re among the millions of cord-cutters out there, getting the live feed can be tricky and we know you want to be participating along as the deluge of Tweets and Facebook posts start to flood your timelines. On Monday, Sept 26, when Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton face off in their first official debate of the presidential election, these are the (political) parties to attend to watch along with your fellow citizens—and, in some cases, get in on some drinks, costumes, music and other entertainment to round out the night.
The Debate Watch Spectacular at Theater at Ace Hotel
Watch the debate on the big screen at the Theater at Ace Hotel at this party featuring live debate analysis from political journalists from the LA Times, hosted by the Times’ Christina Bellantoni and Rico Gagliano of The Dinner Party Download. Alamo Drafthouse will show fun politically-inspired video bits and you can swap governance for grooving with a DJ set by Tuxedo (aka Mayer Hawthorne and Jake One). Theater at Ace Hotel, 929 South Broadway. Tickets are $13; 5pm.
Presidential Debate Watch Party at Carson Doubletree by Hilton
The Black Los Angeles Young Democrats have organized this event in collaboration with the L.A. County Democratic Party, L.A. County Young Democrats, the LAMBDA Democratic Club, Long Beach Young Democrats, Stonewall Young Democrats and Democratic Women’s Study Club of Long Beach. So, essentially, all Democrats (and probably not many Trump supporters). The chair of L.A.’s Democratic Party will be in attendance and refreshments will be offered. Doubletree by Hilton Carson, 2 Civic Plaza Dr, Carson. Admission is free; 6pm.
Presidential Debate Viewing at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
About as “presidential” a setting as you could hope for to watch the debate, the Simi Valley complex dedicated to President Reagan will be showing the C-SPAN feed and offering fare for purchase from the Regan Country Café. The night will be hosted by talk radio host Larry Elder from AM 870 The Answer. Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley. Free with advance registration; 4pm.
#StandardVotes at Standard Hollywood, Cactus Lounge
Doing their part to bring some irreverence to debate watching, the Standard will be kicking off their series of debate parties with a night they’re calling Wigs of the White House. Wear your favorite presidential wig (you have one of those, don’t you?) and you’ll be treated to a free red or blue drink. If you can’t make it out for this one, look forward to Pantsuit Night and Night of 1000 Hillarys coming up for the October debates. The Cactus Lounge at Standard Hotel Hollywood, 8300 Sunset Blvd. Admission is free; 6pm.
KPFK Community Presidential Debate Watch at Holman United Methodist Church
Public broadcaster KPFK has assembled a panel discussion to accompany the televised debate, focused on how the presidential campaign will impact local communities. It will feature Dolores Huerta of the United Farm Workers Union and Kokayi Kwa Jitahidi of the Fight for 15 minimum wage campaign, and moderated by radio host Margaret Prescod. Holman United Methodist Church, 3320 West Adams Blvd. Admission is free; 5:30pm.
Presidential Debate Watch Party at BO-beau kitchen
Spend your happy hour taking in BO-beau’s rooftop view of Long Beach while you watch the debate at this party organized by the Long Beach Democrats. They’ll be supplying some snacks, though you’ll have to buy your own drinks at this casual affair. BO-beau kitchen + roof tap, 144 Pine Ave, Long Beach. Admission is free; 5:30pm.
HRC Los Angeles Debate Watch Party at the Abbey
The Abbey Food & Bar in West Hollywood hosts this event, organized by the Human Rights Campaign and Hollywood for Hillary and officially sanctioned by the Clinton campaign. They’re expecting hundreds of Clinton supporters to turn out for the event and are encouraging RSVPs. Watch the debate on the big screen, and then maybe do a little dancing after. The Abbey Food & Bar, 692 North Robertson Blvd. Admission is free; 5:30pm.
Presidential Debate Watching at Women's Center for Creative Work
“Debates are awkward at best, traumatizing at worst,” states the invite to this DIY debate watch gathering, where they are offering comfy pillows and positive vibes to get through it all together. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks and beverages (possibly enough to share with the group). Women’s Center for Creative Work, 2425 Glover Place. Admission is free; 6pm.
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