Where to Watch the 2016 Presidential Debates in DC

When the presidential candidates take the stage for the first time, make sure you pull up a seat at these bars hosting debate watch parties and specials.

 

Political bingo, speciality election-themed cocktails, and the chance to submit your own cocktail recipe ticket (to be featured on Inauguration Day) await you at Bar Pilar during the night of the first debate. (1833 14th St. NW; 202-265-1751)

 

Nothing says “American Presidential Debate” like….Spanish tapas? Sure, why not. Head to Boqueria for its “Big Talk, Small Plates” event and enjoy unlimited tapas for $45. Offer extended through the entire 2016 debate season. (1837 M St. NW; 202-558-9545)

 

The 14th and V St locations will host a watch party with a discussion panel “Debunking the Presidential Debate” immediately following. Admission is free to both the watch party and panel. (multiple locations)

 

A favorite watering hole for Hill staffers, Capitol Lounge’s watch party will include Clinton and Trump impersonators, Red vs. Blue beers and additional drink specials. (229 Pennsylvania Ave. SE; 202-547-2098)

 

Head to the aptly named restaurant for all three debates and you’ll get election-themed cocktails and appetizers like “Hillary’s Inbox,” “The Trump Tower,” “Clinton BBQ Sliders,” and “Trump Steak Bites.” Sister restaurants, Teddy and the Bully Bar and Declaration will be running similar specials for all debates as well. (1100 Vermont Ave. NW; 202-386-9200)

 

Stop in at the Adams Morgan pizzeria and bar for bingo, beer specials, door prizes and more. All three debates will be shown on the second floor. (2436 18th St. NW; 202-290-2778)

 

The popular U Street bar will host a debate watch complete with $15 buckets of Bud Light products all night long. (900 U St. NW; 202-332-6355)

 

The Woodley Park outpost will have a watch party featuring happy hour drafts, $5 wings, and political bingo starting at 9 PM. Shout out BINGO first and you’ll get a $50 gift certificate. (2331 Calvert St. NW; 202-332-2331)

 

Watch the debate from the Barracks Row bar on the newly renovated second floor and take part in trivia (with prizes including pitchers and pints of beer), political bingo, other games and prizes. (723 8th St. SE; 202-547-8459)

 

For the night of the debate, they’ll take a break from the usual trivia night to host a watch party with debate bingo. Highlights include the chance to win prizes and giveaways throughout the evening from representatives of various breweries. (2411 18th St. NW; 202-234-3070)