The 2012 Oscars: Where to Watch Them

Every year the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awards excellence in cinematic achievements. For those of us who aren’t famous movie stars and directors, the Oscars are just an excuse to invite friends over and together pretend to be hardcore movie critics. Some of us will throw lavish dinner parties, complete with score cards and themed foods. Others will stay in, doing conference work and read about the winners tomorrow. The more adventurous will take to the streets and join the fun of watching the ceremony in NYC. Nothing beats being in a room full of people when the red carpet comes on, and everyone judges Hollywood’s best. So for those of us who can’t make it to the Kodak Theatre this weekend, here’s a list of places in New York City where you can go and watch the Academy Awards with the best of company.

The Murray Hill Oscar Party is held at Joe’s Pub every year. What? Joe’s??? I know, crazy right? It’s like they’re hosting it just for Sarah Lawrence students. Anyways, over the course of the night there will be impromptu performances, prizes as well as running commentary from the host comedian Murray Hill. There will also be a Oscar Prediction Ballot complete with a grand prize and a best and worst dressed competition for the audience. The event begins at 8:00 pm with a pre-show red carpet beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $25.

The Alt Oscar Party 2012 puts Zuccotti Park to shame. An event “not just for the Hollywood 1% but for anyone who makes an effort, bring their fabulousness, attitude and pet causes…real or imagined.” Beginning at 6:00 pm, this annual Oscar spoof includes its own Alty Awards, red carpet interviews, music and more. Tickets are $15 presale and $20 at the door.

The Southern Hospitality Bar in both the Upper East Side and Hell’s Kitchen host an Oscar party free of charge. Between the fourteen HD TVs and the large projection screen, you’ll definitely have a good seat. Specialty drinks include the Midnight in Paris (a french martini), the Iron Lady (an english rose cocktail) and a Moneyball shooter. The party is complete with an Oscar Pool with the chance to win free drinks, appetizers, and gift certificates.

SideBAR’s 2012 Oscars Viewing Party is free of admission and comes with a complementary glass of champagne. There is also a Prediction Ballot with the grand prize of open bar and dinner for two in Little Town NYC. The event begins at 7:00 pm and runs until 9:00 pm. Open Bar optional for $50.00.

Henry’s 2nd Annual Oscar Party begins at 6:00 pm with hors d’oeuvres then dinner and awards at 7:00 pm. The party is hosted by Jeff Calhoun, Henry and Broadway director/choreographer and includes commentary by Jim Caruso of Cast Party. The Oscars will be shown in the big screen in the dinning room, where guests can enjoy a three course oscar supper designed by Chef Mark Barrett. Themed cocktails, by Bar Chef Randy King, are also available. Be sure to fill out an Oscar Ballot: grand prize is a complimentary dinner at Henry’s and free tickets to the Broardway musical Newsies. Reservations are REQUIRED.

Even though you won’t take home an Oscar for “Best Director” or get to walk the Red Carpet with George Clooney, you still have the chance to win some pretty great prizes and have a good time in the city. So go forth and if all else fails you can always watch them at the Black Squirrel.