The 87th Academy Awards are coming Sunday, February 22nd at 6pm to ABC (channel 7). Doogie’s hosting. JHud, Jack Black (da what?!), and Lady Gaga are performing. That said, a significant portion of the show should be watchable. If you’re looking to enjoy the entire shebang, however, we recommend hitting up a viewing party. Aside from the tweets, these soirees are pretty much the only reason to tune in.
Here’s a concise list of the best bashes Chicago’s boasting this weekend in order of fanciness.
Top Oscar Viewing Parties
Jeans and Heels/Jeans and Oxford
Where: The Butcher’s Tap, 3553 N. Southport Ave
Cost: $30
Why you may want to attend: “From 6 pm to 9 pm, enjoy an assortment of our seasonal meats and cheeses from local farms. Your $30 ticket also includes 5 drink tickets good for wine from the barrel or select draft beers. . . Oscar theme games with prizes throughout the night!”
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-oscars-at-the-butchers-tap-tickets-15383924733
Website: The Butcher’s Tap
Party Dress/Jacket and Trousers
Where: I|O Godfrey, 127 W Huron St
Cost: Free
Why you may want to attend: From 6 to 11:30 pm. “Arrival with Red Carpet, Step & Repeat & Paparazzi. Award Ballots, Prizes will be given for correct guesses of top four categories. Grand Prizes: 1 night stay at The Godfrey Hotel Chicago, 1 table Reservation in I|O including one bottle Ketel One and one bottle Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label
RSVP: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/io-godfrey-oscar-viewing-event-tickets-15737912520?aff=es2&rank=4
Website: The Godfrey Hotel
Cocktail Attire Required
Where: Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State
Cost: $100 General Admission, $200 VIP (reserved seating)
Why you may want to attend: “Hollywood on State” is Chicago’s longest-running awards show viewing party. There will be glamour, gourmet food and drinks. Valet available for $25.
Tickets: http://genesiskelfilmcenter.pfestore.com/capacity/events/72067f81-cc98-4e33-a8ce-f83c11bfafc7.aspx
Website: Siskel Film Center