Alright, Richmond, it’s that special day again—Election Day! Time to choose our latest lineup of “public servants.” Anxious? Of course you are! If you’re not clutching your I Voted Sticker like a lifeline, you’re probably three drinks ahead of the rest of us.
So instead of nervously refreshing your news feed at home, why not join the downtown crowd? Grab a drink, grab a friend, and watch the grand “democracy experiment” play out, preferably with something stronger than soda in hand.
Here’s where Richmond really shines—election watch parties! This city will never pass up a reason for a round of drinks, especially with a side of spirited debates and the collective sighs of election night anticipation. We’ve rounded up the best spots to watch the results roll in and make Election Day just a little less painful—or maybe a little more, depending on how you look at it.
ed. note: We will be updating this throughout the day as more information comes in.
Here’s where to head:
OFFICIAL Watch Parties
- The Democratic Watch Party at the Hippodrome Theater
Hosted by Sen. Tim Kaine himself, this one’s bound to bring the crowds. Check-in for the press opens at 3 p.m., and doors open to the public at 6 p.m. If you’re feeling like a night with the party faithful, swing by the Hippodrome at 528 N 2nd St. for what’s sure to be a memorable watch party. - Michelle Mosby at The Black Olive
New spot alert! Former Richmond Councilwoman Michelle Mosby is hosting her own election gathering at The Black Olive, located at 13 W Broad St. Press doors open at 6:30, and the public can roll in starting at 7:30. - Andreas Addison Watch Party at The Basement
Councilman Addison’s team is holding a results watch at The Basement (300 E Broad Street). Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and they’re promising catered food, a cash bar, and theater-style seating. Expect to feel right at home watching democracy unfold from your seat. - Willie Hilliard Watch Party at Pig and Brew
Join the Hilliard team at Pig and Brew, 1313 Hull St, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. for an evening of election results, good company, and a proper spread. If you’re looking to mix election coverage with some classic Richmond fare, this is your spot. - Sarah Abubaker at Riverside Tavern
Head to Riverside Tavern at 5057 Forest Hill Ave tonight, starting at 7:30 p.m., to join Sarah Abubaker’s Election Night gathering. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, relax, and watch the results roll in with good company. - Maurice Neblett Watch Party
Maurice Neblett is hosting a private Election Night watch party for staff, family, and friends at 521 N Adams St, Richmond, VA, from 6 PM to 12 AM (RSVP only). They’ll also be live streaming on Facebook and Instagram, accessible through mauriceneblett.com.
Bars Downtown
- Harry’s At The Hof – Election Watch Party
Harry’s at The Hofheimer, 2818 West Broad Street, is hosting a Local Night Election Watch Party! They’re offering a 10% discount and $8 handhelds. Doors are open to everyone, so grab a pint and settle in for a night of local pride and political theatrics. - Cobra Cabana – Democracy Dawgs
At Cobra Cabana (901 W Marshall St), they’re making Election Night special with FREE hotdogs for anyone showing off their “I Voted” sticker with a beer purchase. Election results on screen, tunes on speakers so you don’t actually have to hear them—it’s election coverage, Richmond-style. - The Camel – Art School Election Night
The Camel (1621 W Broad St) is putting a spin on the night by bringing in Art School, led by RVA Mag’s very own music editor Griffin Smalley. Grab a drink, enjoy some tunes, and catch the results on the screens. - Bingo! Beer Co.
Bingo Beer Co. (2900 W Broad St) promises Election Night on the screens in their popular bingo hall-turned-bar. Swing by for drinks and maybe a little distraction from the numbers rolling in. - Sticky Rice – Tots, Beer, and Politics
If you’re craving tots with your politics, Sticky Rice (2232 W Main St) is the spot. They’ll be showing results—unless the crowd starts getting weird, which is always a possibility. Grab a plate, grab a pint, and watch democracy unfold one result at a time.
So there you have it, Richmond—get out there, find your spot, and let’s watch the results roll in together! Because if there’s one thing we can agree on, it’s that Election Night is always better with a drink in hand. Cheers to democracy, or whatever we’re calling it these days!
Main photo: Sammy Davis Jr. 1950
