Events

Where to go for election watch parties in Arlington

Pubs, political parties and clubs across Arlington will be hosting watch events as election results trickle in tomorrow night.

Political groups of various stripes will be hunkering down at local establishments — some of which are offering drink specials in addition to live election coverage as the first polls close at 7 p.m.

Here’s where to go to drink and watch the election in Arlington.

Arlington Drafthouse

Starting at 6 p.m., the Arlington Drafthouse will air live CNN election coverage on the big screen with accompanying drink specials.

Admission is free, though attendees must be age 21 and over unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parties of five or more people must email Arlington Drafthouse to reserve seats. 2903 Columbia Pike. 

Busboys and Poets Shirlington

All Busboys and Poets locations plan to host election watch parties. The restaurant invites “the company of fellow progressives who are committed to fighting for peace, social justice, and equality — no matter the outcome.”

Party and drink specials begin at 6 p.m., and the restaurant plans to remain open until a new president is declared. Free admission can be claimed on Eventbrite. 4251 Campbell Avenue.

Crystal City Sports Pub

The Crystal City Sports Pub will show live election coverage on its third level beginning at 7 p.m. The Arlington-Alexandria-Falls Church Young Republicans have advertised a watch party there as well.

“Don’t miss the excitement,” the pub wrote on Facebook. 529 23rd Street S. 

Highline RxR

Local Democratic candidates are expected to make appearances at the Arlington Democrats watch party, taking place at Highline RxR starting at 7 p.m. Online registration is free. The event was moved from a previous venue. 2010 Crystal Drive.

Immigrant Food

The Ballston restaurant will host a watch party with 50% off wines from 5-11 p.m. The restaurant will also serve a free Agua de Jamaica with purchase all day to patrons with an “I voted” sticker. 4245 Fairfax Drive.

Ireland’s Four Courts

Ireland’s Four Courts will host a watch party into the early morning hours with cocktail specials, a pub quiz and multi-network election coverage. The quiz begins at 7 p.m. and live election results will be shown from 8:30 p.m.-2 a.m. The Forward Party, which has a pair of candidates in local Arlington races, will also be holding its watch party here. 2051 Wilson Blvd.

Leadership Institute

Arlington Republicans plan to gather on the third floor of the Leadership Institute building in Clarendon. 1101 N. Highland Street.

Missed something notable? Let us know in the comments. 

About the Author

  • Katie Taranto is a reporter at Local News Now, primarily covering business, public safety and the city of Falls Church. She graduated from the University of Missouri in 2024, where she previously covered K-12 education at The Columbia Missourian. She is originally from Macungie, Pennsylvania.