Where to Watch Tonight’s Presidential Debate, From L.A. to NYC

Calm your election nerves by drinking at one of these viewing parties.

If there was ever a grudge match to tune in for, this is it—and it’s not even on Pay Per View. One of the biggest events of the 2016 presidential election—the first of three televised debates between Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and Republican contender Donald Trump—kicks off tonight at 9 p.m. ET at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y. and millions are expected to tune in. Literally, millions: ABC News is projecting that 74 percent of Americans will watch, a number rivaled by the Super Bowl. Need a place to take part in the excitement (or terror)? Have a look at our list of debate gatherings in a city near you. (Note: all times are for the local time zone.)

LOS ANGELES

The Standard, Hollywood

Dress up in your best presidential wig (you know, that you happen to have lying around) for The Standard Hollywood’s ‘Wigs of the White House’ debate series kickoff party. If you show up in costume, you’ll score a free red or blue drink (you might need it!). We hope ‘Pantsuit Night’ is coming up next…

6 p.m. Free entry. Drinking games included.

The Standard, Downtown LA

Head downtown to SPiN Standard for a watch party with ping-pong and free red and blue shots every time Clinton or Trump rack up 10 of their signature buzzwords—this promises to be a night of fun, LOSER.

6 p.m. Free entry.

The Theatre at the Ace Hotel

Join the Los Angeles Times’ politics team for ‘The Debate Watch Spectacular’—a watch party with live debate analysis at the Ace Hotel in Downtown L.A. Get comfy and critical in one of the 1,600 seats of The Theatre, the hotel’s beautifully restored 1920s cinema.

5 p.m. $13 entry.

SAN FRANCISCO

SoMa StrEat Food Park

Watch the debate al fresco at SoMa StrEat Food Park, the Bay Area’s largest food truck park and beer garden. Surrounded by ten big screen TVs, you won’t miss a beat—even while standing in line for La Jefa tacos.