Once you’ve made your ballot choices, heading to the polls and slapping on an “I Voted” sticker is the easy part. But waiting for the results of who will win the presidency? That’s where the jitters come in. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to shake out the nerves on Election Night. Whether you want to keep an eye on the polls at a watch party or “huddle for warmth” (as the folks at Mobtown Ballroom are putting it) with board games, bingo, live music, and drinks amongst friends, here’s where to go if you’re feeling antsy:
Alexander’s Tavern: Head to the upstairs bar at this Fells Point fixture to enjoy a beer and a basket of crab tots while browsing a collection of “poignant and satirical digital images capturing the irony and urgency of the 2024 presidential election” for sale by artist Regan Vasconcellos. Election coverage will be on at the bar throughout the evening if you want to keep an eye on the polls.
The Brass Tap: Instead of simply showing the returns on TV, this Midtown-Belvedere beer bar is turning the poll results into a fun bingo game for any patrons who want to participate. Plus, look out for election-themed cocktails, all-day red and blue sangria specials, and free shots for anyone who shows off their “I Voted” sticker.
The Club Car: What better way to keep it lighthearted than musical theater? Stillpointe Theater is hosting a special Election Night performance of its millennial-inspired “rock the vote” cabaret show at The Club Car in Station North. For the $20 price of admission at the door, snag a seat, grab a drink, and be dazzled as the show provides much-needed some levity.
Mobtown Ballroom: Just around the corner, this Station North community hub will be ready and waiting for locals looking for a bite to eat, drinks from the bar (classic cocktails, mocktails, and bottled and canned beer are among highlights), or distractions in the form of board games. Feel free to bring your own or use Mobtown’s collection as a way to unwind.
Dutch Courage: With no screens in sight, this Old Goucher gin bar is an ideal spot to zone out with a cocktail and a charcuterie board. Anyone who comes in with a sticker from the polls will receive 10 percent off of their tab.
Deddle’s Donuts: Election Day just so happens to overlap with National Donut Day this year, so Deddle’s at Lexington Market is celebrating accordingly by offering anyone who shows proof of voting a free mini bag of their signature sugary circles. If you need a pick-me-up to get your mind off of the returns, a sweet treat is always a good option.
Greedy Reads: A stop into this neighborhood favorite bookshop (with locations in Fells Point and Remington) might be exactly what you need to quiet the noise. Browse the stacks and show your “I Voted” sticker for 10 percent off of your purchase.
The Perch: Typically, the massive screens at this Federal Hill sports bar are tuned in to football this time of year. But on Election Night, they will be projecting the polls all night long during an official watch party hosted by Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, Black Girls Vote, Baltimore City NAACP, Cllctivly, and other local civic orgs. No matter your political affiliation, come to enjoy light fare and drinks at the cash bar.
Reginald F. Lewis Museum: Get out of the house with a visit to the Inner Harbor’s Reginald F. Lewis Museum, which will be hosting an official watch party from 7-10 p.m. Mingle with neighbors, grab food from on-site vendors, and watch live commentary as results roll in.
If you really want to disassociate, here are a few regularly scheduled Tuesday-night activities that will keep you away from screens:
Trivia: Expert hosts with Charm City Trivia, Greg’s Shitty Trivia, and Bmore Trivia are hosting games at various venues across the city on Tuesday night.
Karaoke: Belt away your worries at spots like Good Vibes Cantina in Canton and the DDL Lounge in Clifton Park.
Salsa Dancing: R. House’s free Latin Nights with Salsa Now—which we gave a 2024 Best of Baltimore award—will be in full swing, highlighting latin music, dancing, and eats from the food market’s vendors.