Where to watch the Oscars in NYC
Photo courtesy of Metrograph
Hollywood’s biggest night comes to New York City. For a festive Oscars-viewing experience, hit one of the city’s bars, venues, or movie theaters hosting watch parties in honor of the 96th annual Academy Awards this Sunday, March 10. Ahead, find our favorite spots to show off your red-carpet look, place your bets on this year’s nominees, and sip a cinema-themed cocktail among fellow film fans.
Metrograph
The Metrograph’s free annual Academy Awards viewing party returns this year. The old-Hollywood-inspired two-screen movie theater on the Lower East Side is screening the Oscars on both screens, with one designated as the quiet theater, as well as in the lobby. Seating in the Commissary and balcony box are reserved for members only and include a $100 per person minimum and $200 for balcony box seating. Seating is first come, first served everywhere else. Dress well, according to the event page, and don’t forget to fill out an Oscar ballot for the chance to win up to $500.
230 Fifth
Midtown’s 230 Fifth is known for its year-round glitz and glamour, but the indoor-outdoor bar and events venue takes it up a notch for the Oscars. The $20 ticket (plus $3 in fees) includes admission to the indoor event, a free cup of popcorn, and access to the bar’s famous rooftop, which has direct views of New York City’s very own celebrity, the Empire State Building. Doors open at 7 p.m. Get tickets and more information here.
Fraunces Tavern
Fans of history and Hollywood should head to Fraunces Tavern, a Financial District bar established in 1762. The bar is hosting an Oscars viewing party on Sunday that will offer a red carpet step and repeat, a photo booth, free popcorn, movie-themed cocktails, and a full food and drink menu. The best-dressed attendee will win a bottle of Moët Champagne. Purchase your $20 tickets here.
Littlefield
Dress to the nines and get ready for your red carpet-moment. Littlefield in Gowanus is hosting an Oscars screening with a pre-show red carpet and popcorn. Hosted by Zach Schiffman, the event is free to attend, but snacks will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m. An RSVP does not guarantee entry, so arrive early to snag a spot.
Parklife
At Littlefield’s sister bar across the street, Parklife is also hosting an Oscars party. Play bingo and Academy Awards-themed games with comedian Bobby Hankison before the start-studded begins. Reservations are highly recommended via OpenTable. Food and beverage purchases are required.
Oscar Wilde Bar
Putting a Victorian twist on the evening is the Oscar Wilde Bar, an enchanting watering hole decked out in opulent decor and antiques, and the longest bar in New York City. The Nomad bar, named after the Irish playwright, is once again hosting its annual Oscars viewing party. The bar is offering a special pre-fixe menu for $75 each that includes a choice of an appetizer, entree, and dessert, alongside free champagne and popcorn. General admission costs $35 and includes one glass of bubbles and free popcorn. Secure a spot by emailing [email protected]; a limited number of tickets will be available at the door.
Brooklyn Art Haus
The multi-purpose performance space/art gallery/lounge that opened in Williamsburg last year will host a fun-filled night on Sunday hosted by Peru Flores. Enjoy happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and dinner afterward.
Editor’s note: The original version of this article was published on March 9, 2023, and has since been updated.