Los Angeles loves a good party, but no event gets the city in a celebratory mood quite like the Academy Awards. Every Oscar night, the world is invited to salute the top films of the year, and whether you have dreams of accepting the golden statue or simply want to cheer on your favorite flicks, come February 9, these viewing parties are almost as good as the show itself.
Celebrate Hollywood’s biggest night with your closest friends by booking Hotel Figueroa’s Casablanca Suite for a one-of-kind viewing party. Designed for up to 20 guests, let Chef Angelo DiMauro handle the food, featuring items like prime steak skewers, while resident mixologist Michael Horan serves up specialty cocktails inspired by classic Hollywood. The package includes a viewing party and dinner in Casbah, one night in the Casablanca Suite, and drinks in Bar Alta for everyone in your party.
If your invitation to the Oscars got lost in the mail, Elton John’s legendary viewing party is the next best thing. Held in West Hollywood Park, the party is a favorite among celebrities and features gourmet food, multiple open bars, and music performances after the show. This year’s event is extra special since Sir Elton’s song “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” from his biopic Rocketman is nominated for Best Original Song, and while he’ll be at the ceremony during the viewing, expect the icon to rock his event after the show. Funds raised benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and contact Dean Carras at dean.carras@ejaf.org or 212-219-0670 for ticket information.
Women Who Whiskey takes over Minibar Hollywood for a night of drinks, film, and fun. For $25, guests get a welcome cocktail, a flight of four Rabbit Hole whiskies, and a chance to score a bottle by entering the Oscar pool. Enjoy snacks and conversations with fellow whiskey lovers, and since the Oscars are shown on a tiny TV, expect to be more engaged with the crowd than the show itself. After the show, the night winds down with a DJ spinning vinyl records.
There’s a good chance you’ll spot an A-lister on your way to The Beverly Hills Hotel for The Polo Lounge’s glitzy Oscar watch party and dinner. A longtime tradition, screens display the award show all night as guests enjoy a three-course menu featuring dishes like oysters, spaghetti, and crab cakes. The VIP treatment begins with a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Impérial upon arrival, and with just two seating times at 5PM and 5:30PM, guests are welcome to stay until the end of the show. The menu is $150 per person and reservations are required.
The new, upscale lounge 3rd Base LA trades sports for movies during a viewing party that’s as relaxed or swanky as you see fit. For those looking for something laidback, general admission tickets for viewing are just $15 and VIP viewing tickets are $35-$100, but if you’re looking to make a night of it, secure a dinner table starting at $45 (food not included). The night kicks off with a red carpet reception and expect movie-themed cocktails, prizes for those who guess the most winners, and music and dancing after the viewing.
We’re continually inspired by the creative energy of Downtown Los Angeles. For local recommendations—and to hear from the diverse individuals who make DTLA what it is today—head to our Meet You Downtown blog.
