Guide to the Best Election Watch Parties in North Texas

In case you somehow haven’t heard, the next general election is taking place on Nov. 5. Candidates such as presidential hopefuls Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the senatorial bids of Colin Allred and Ted Cruz and several local races and propositions are on the ballot. No matter where you fall on the political spectrum, you probably feel like a lot is on the line this election.

If you’re stressing over the election and need some company (and drinks) to get you through it, you’re not alone. Many organizations across North Texas are throwing watch parties where you can party (or just fixate on the incoming results) with like-minded people.

Here are 10 election watch parties in North Texas of varying tones and political affiliations worth checking out.

PrismHealth Election Watch Party

5–9 p.m.
Sue Ellen’s, 3014 Throckmorton St.

Organized by the largest HIV/AIDs service organization in North Texas, this party at Dallas’ historic (and only) lesbian bar will be a nonpartisan celebration of the LGBTQ community. Election commentary will intermingle with karaoke, drag performances and community spotlighting, all emceed by local drag artist Arya Jealous. More information can be found at PrismHealth North Texas’ website.

Libertarian Party of Texas Watch Party

5–10 p.m.
The Westin Dallas, Park Central, 12720 Merit Drive

Are you casting your vote for Libertarian presidential candidate Chase Oliver? If so, a swanky penthouse party is probably your scene. The black-tie affair promises “camaraderie, lively discussions and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals committed to the cause of liberty.” Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased on the Libertarian Party of Texas’ website.

Brew City Election Watch Party

6 p.m. – midnight
Brew City Kitchen and Cocktails, 3427 E. Trinity Mills Road, No. 700

This party promises free admission and parking, guaranteed seating, live election results and music from DJ Phife. You can plug into the news or tune it out in favor of drinking and dancing. Options are what democracy is all about, right? More information can be found on EventBrite.

Denton Dems Election Night Watch Party

6:30–11 p.m.
Union Bear Brewing, 215 S. Bell Ave., Denton

This casual watch party at a local brewery and restaurant is a great opportunity to watch the results come in over some “no coast” beers and bar fare. This event is laid-back and non-ticketed, so if the results get you down and you need to go home and sulk, you can do so guilt-free. More information can be found on the Denton County Democrats’ website.

Tarrant County Democratic Party Watch Party

7–10 p.m.
The Bearded Lady, 300 Main St., Fort Worth

This party advertises “votes, vibes and victory.” For $20, those voting blue in the Fort Worth area will get some dinner and the company of fellow Democrats, both of which could come in handy over a tense election night. More information can be found on the Tarrant County Democratic Party’s website.

Collin County NAACP Election Watch Party

7 p.m.–1 a.m.
Sambuca 360, 7200 Bishop Road, No. 270, Plano

This free event by Collin County’s NAACP promises to be a laid-back gathering where political junkies can discuss the results as they come in. Happy at hour at Sambuca 360 lasts from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. so we recommend showing up a little early to pre-game. More information can be found on EventBrite.

Rubber Gloves Election Watch Party

7 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studio, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton

This party has the distinction of running later than the other events on this list. If the election isn’t called in a timely manner, Gloves may be the place to be. This free event will feature live results on the patio, DJs, drink specials and culture jamming. There will also be a presidential impressions contest with a $100 prize, so brush up on your “coconut trees” and “yuges.” More information can be found on Rubber Gloves' website.

Election Day Poetry Jam and Open Mic

7:30–10 p.m.
The Dock Bookshop, 6637 Meadowbrook Drive, Fort Worth

Politics have a long history of inspiring great poetry and music, and this election will be no different. Located at the largest Black-owned full-service bookstore in Texas, this poetry jam will contain election commentary, live performances and a mix of the two. Tickets start at $5 and can be found on Eventbrite.

Election Night Drag Show and Watch Party

7:30–10:30 p.m.
Station 4, 3911 Cedar Springs Road

Elections can be a drag, but some local queens are dedicated to lightening the mood. Hosted by Marsha Dimes, the “fiercest and most patriotic” watch party in Dallas will feature Shantae Morgan, Velma K. L’Amour and Kylee O’Hara Fatale as Kamala Harris. All proceeds go to the Pride Museum of Texas. General admission is free, but the $25 VIP experience gets you a meet-and-greet with “Kamala” herself. More information can be found on Eventbrite.

Dallas County Young Republicans Watch Party

8 p.m. – Midnight
Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave.

Are you a Republican seeking the company of other Republicans? No, this isn’t an ad for the conservative dating app The Right Stuff. We’re just plugging this free watch party at the historic Granada Theater. More information can be found on Ticket Tailor.