Chicago Oscar Viewing Parties Offer Red Carpet Treatment

Here in Chicago, it’s not just the prestigious Chicago Film Festival that rolls out the red carpet Hollywood-style. On February 26, the big city will throw open its doors to movie fans with glitzy Oscar viewing parties complete with champagne, prizes, and the full film star treatment. Guests can watch the full Oscar telecast together, compete in trivia games, collect some fantastic swag, and donate to worthy causes.

Oscar Night America 2012

The Gene Siskel Film Center
164 N. State St., Chicago
6 p.m.-midnight

The only Chicago event fully sanctioned by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, this Oscar night viewing party is one of the most prestigious. Cocktail attire is required, and guests can stroll the red carpet under the critical eye of host Amanda Puck, Chicago’s well-known foodie, fashionista, and Emmy-winning former host of restaurant review show “Check, Please.”

If you’re hoping to mingle with the local upper crust, this is the place to be, so keep an eye out for Chicago celebs. Spring for the VIP tickets and rub shoulders with the elite at the private bar as you dig through your deluxe gift bags. Dinner will be provided by MJ Catering, and both theaters will provide the telecast in HD. Tickets are $100.00, $200.00 for VIP through Ticketmaster. Discount parking is available. Proceeds benefit The Gene Siskel Film Center.

The 84th Academy Awards Oscar Viewing Party at the Drake Hotel

The Drake Hotel
140 East Walton St., Chicago
Begins at 6:00 p.m.

What could be more posh than viewing the Oscars at a landmark Chicago hotel that is so elegant it has its own Tea Lobby serving traditional English afternoon tea daily? This event is as much about the party as the telecast, with a three-course meal served in exquisite surroundings. Run by two of Chicago’s premier event planners and marketing specialists Cece & Melinda, the high-class soiree is black tie optional and includes prizes for Best Dressed. Tickets are $125.00 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.

Richard Roeper & Billy Dec Present the Oscar Viewing Party

Rockit Bar & Grill River North
22 W. Hubbard, Chicago
5:00 p.m.-11:30 p.m.

If you’re looking for a more movies-centered event, don your club wear and head over to the Oscar viewing party hosted by nationally known Chicago film critic Richard Roeper and entertainment guru, and Rockit owner, Billy Dec. The two will commentate the telecast while guests get to test their Oscar winner prediction skills against the two hosts. The atmosphere will be more casual, featuring appetizers, Oscar-themed cocktails, and champagne.

Tickets are $50.00 and available online. The event benefits local charity After School Matters, an organization created by the late Maggie Daley, former first lady of Chicago. The charity offers enrichment programs and skills-training outside of school for Chicago public high school students.

On the Red Carpet Oscar Party 2012

The Park West Theater
322 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago
Begins at 6 p.m.

This Oscar viewing event is all about glam style, with guests strutting down the red carpet hosted by fashion blogger Stephen Young and stylist/”RuPaul’s Drag Race” competitor Precious Jewel. The event boasts a large silent auction, featuring $25,000.00 worth of goodies such as trips, concert tickets, and wine collections. The raffle includes a grand prize trip to the nation’s capitol.

Guests will be treated to a buffet dinner and cocktails, with popcorn and candy for the Oscar telecast. The On the Red Carpet party features Celebrity, Producer, and Paparazzi level tickets, from $30.00 to $125.00, available online. The event benefits Center on Halsted, Chicago’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center.

For more articles by Valerie David, check out:

Is Emmy-winner Guy Pearce Due for an Oscar?

Shouldn’t the SAG Awards Choose More Unique Nominees?

‘The Artist’ Is So Good Because It’s So French

Check out coverage of the 84th Academy Awards on Yahoo! Movies


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