If you didn't manage to score a nomination -- much less a ticket to the Oscars on Sunday night -- chances are you'll be watching the festivities right here in sweet home Chicago. Thankfully, there's plenty of options to cheer on The King's Speech or The Social Network.
LUXBAR and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are throwing the second annual JDRF Red Carpet Party. The Gold Coast hot spot rolls out the red carpet at 6 p.m., celebrating the movie industry's biggest night with 17 flat screen HD TVs, a silent auction, hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. Tickets are $65 in advance and $80 at the door. (Full disclosure: Event hosted by NBC Chicago's Ginger Zee and Marcus Riley)
The city's only official Oscar party sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is Oscar Night America, held at The Gene Siskel Film Center (164 N. State St.). It's one of 50 official parties that will be held across the country and includes a red carpet experience hosted by Amanda Puck. The $100 ticket, which includes dinner and a showing of the awards ceremony in the movie theatre, must be purchased in advance. (Update: Event sold out)
Renowned Chicago film critic Richard Roeper hosts the annual Oscars Party at Rockit Bar & Grill. The awards viewing party includes food from Rockit's menu, Oscar-themed cocktails and Oscar pools. Tickets are $50 for general admission and $75 for preferred seating.
The Palm Court at the Drake Hotel offers a screening of the Oscars along with a three-course meal that includes a glass of champagne. Feel like you're actually at the Oscars at this black-tie optional event which comes complete with a red carpet and a contst for best dressed. Tickets ar $75 per guest. Email Shaun.Rajah@hilton.com for reservations.
Chicago Sport and Social Club hosts a "Night at the Oscars" event at State (935 W. Webster). The ceremony will be shown on more than 100 flat-screen TVs. The $25 ticket includes drinks and dinner, Oscars trivia and a swanky red carpet.
Kirkwood (2935 N. Sheffield Ave.) offers an Oscars party without an admission price, but their $60 bottles of Veuve Clicquot may add up. Bald Mike will be hosting Oscars Trivia where guests can win cash prizes for choosing the correct winners in each category.
Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery also rolls out the red carpet with a free admission party that includes a variety of themed food and drink specials such as the Social Network Nachos and True Grit-ini cocktails.
