Students party on at city Oscar celebrations

For students who love movies, talking about the Oscars the day after usually pales in comparison to celebrating with friends the night they happen.

The Academy Awards are a yearly ritual that can be enjoyed by anyone—whether you believe the Academy gets it right or think most of the wins are unjustified. Many students will at least look up who took home the prize, so why not talk (or complain) about it over food and drinks at one of the many happening Oscar parties in the city?

First on the list is the ninth annual Murray Hill Oscar Party at Joe’s Pub. Titular drag king host (Hill) will roast the top films, interspersed with impromptu parody skits and performances by a slew of other comedians. The night will also feature competitions and prizes. The event fee is $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Next up is Comix’s party, which is loaded with trivia and prediction ballot raffles. The event, hosted by Kambri Crews and Danny Leary, will feature discounted food and drinks such as “The Lovely Boneless Chicken Tenders” and “The Hurt Liquor”. Comix’s Oscar party is free and only requires an RSVP in advance—perfect for frugal students.

Have a dollar or two to spare—or $150? If you do case, check out New York City’s official Oscar party at Lincoln Center. The Oscars will be shown on the big screen in Alice Tully Hall, and attendees will be treated to free champagne and music from the Juilliard Jazz Ensemble. While the tickets are costly, all proceeds go to charity.

To try out a newcomer to the Oscar party scene, visit Clover Club’s first annual celebration. Reservations must be made in advance, and a red carpet will be laid down for guests’ arrival. Though the hors d’œuvres will be fancy—like caviar blini and truffle popcorn with parmesan—the event is free, and dressy attire is encouraged.

Lastly, restaurateur Donatella Arpaia will throw a more formal Oscar party at her upscale eatery Mia Dona. The $25 fee includes two cocktails as well as a tasting menu. The event will also feature themed dishes, including a “blue Avatar” cocktail and popcorn with “edible Oscar-gold dust.”

Whether students are interested in events comic or classy, costly or cheap, New York City’s variety of Oscar party options make for a welcome break from midterm mania.