Election night is coming to the DC area next Tuesday, November 5. In an area brimming with political staffers and government employees, it’s safe to say that locals are invested in politics, and there’s a lot riding on this election. Whether this means you’ll be anxiously refreshing your feed or looking for an excuse to party, the DMV knows how to celebrate election season like nowhere else in the US.

Lincoln Restaurant (Downtown DC)

If you’re looking to get the party started early, head to Lincoln Restaurant from 4 to 5 for a complimentary buffet. After that, TVs will be on all night and there will be food specials and specialty cocktails with politically-charged names, like “The Red Elephant in the Room.” There will even be an Abe Lincoln impersonator to help welcome in the 47th President.

ARTECHOUSE (Southwest DC)

Election night can bring a lot of stress to those who are invested in politics. For those looking for an aura of calm, check out experimental art studio ARTECHOUSE, who will be hosting something a little unconventional. With “I Voted” stickers, patrons will get $10 of general admission to the immersive art experience set in a digital seascape, including an XR cocktail happy hour from 4 – 10.

DC Young Republicans Host at Dirty Water

For those wishing they could see the DMV turn red, Dirty Water is the place to be. Mingle with other young Republicans with an open bar for $25, including Bud and Shock Top Drafts and hard iced teas. The event invitation reads, “all patriots are welcome.” The evening will go from 6:30 until a winner is declared.

Union Pub (Capitol Hill, DC)

If insanely long lines to drink at Union Pub during the debates were any indicator, then everyone in the 202 is bound to be at Union Pub on November 5. This Capitol Hill favorite will have presidential-themed drinks and other specials, along with election coverage all night.

Shaw Tavern (Shaw, DC)

Shaw’s Tavern is hosting a one-of-a-kind election viewing experience for those who want to go all out. For $99, patrons get access to a 4-hour open bar, a buffet, and circulating apps. All night, TVs (with sound!) will be playing election coverage. Tickets are available on EventBrite.

Election Night Watch Party at Merry Pin (Takoma, DC)

For the crafty DC resident, Merry Pin in Takoma is the place to be. In a time that brings about anxiety, de-stress by making crafts with fellow DIY gods and goddesses. They will project the election coverage on a screen, and anyone working on a Kamala Harris craft will get 10% off food or beverages. The event is free, but RSVPS are required for upstairs seating.

Boundary Stone (Bloomingdale, DC)

The neighborhood pub in Bloomingdale will be running an all-night happy hour while airing election coverage starting at 8. Bartenders will be bringing back a fan favorite called “Kamala’s Coconut Daiquiri” along with other themed drinks, including the “Palate Cleanser Shot.” Reservations are recommended. 

Busboys and Poets (All locations — DC, Maryland, and Virginia)

Busboys and poets emphasize their commitment to social justice and hope for a brighter future in their event details for their Election Viewing Party. All night on November 5, they will be running drink specials, showing election coverage, and making room for some cozy, optimistic vibes. Reserve free tickets on Eventbrite.

Penn Social (Penn Quarter, DC)

Penn Social is known for bringing out the inner child in us all, and Election Night is no different. This family-friendly event will be serving specials like $2 off Port City Optimal Wit and $4 off Cheesy Bread. Seating is first come, first-served, and those who are not quite voting age must be accompanied by a parent.