The basic rules of a successful Oscar watch party are the same pretty much every year: Go big on invitations and decorations, host a ballot competition with prizes, fill everyone's bellies with delicious snacks and beverages.
Follow live coverage of the 2021 Oscars on Audacy
The entertainment for the evening is naturally taken care of. Read on to learn how exactly to throw the best Oscars viewing party this year.
The 93rd annual Academy Awards air Sunday, April 25 at 8pm ET on ABC. Follow 2021 Oscars coverage, including live winners updates, best red carpet moments and more, on Audacy.
Study up
First things first, watch the most important Oscar-nominated films. The awards show is a lot more fun if you know what everyone is talking about, and if you have vested interests in your own favorite films to root for. It's even a great excuse to finally order that projector for your home entertainment center.
Send out the invitations
A classy event like an Oscar watch party deserves classy invitations. You can invite some friends and family to join you in person, or provide details about a virtual get-together on the big night.
Decorate
Whether you're hosting a few friends or you're going stag to your own watch party, spritz up your environment with a little bit of camera-ready decoration: balloons, streamers, fake Oscar statues. Especially seek out decorations you can reuse at Oscar parties in years to come.
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Get dressed up
Forget what the stars wear. You and your guests are the real fashion icons of Oscar night. While you can be a little loose on the black tie (no one should splurge on a gala-level dress for your house party), do tell people to get a little snazzy. It's a fun excuse to look your best, even if it's just for your computer camera.
Prep a delicious spread
Bring out the charcuterie and cheese and canapés if you like, but there are two things you also have to pop on Oscar night: popcorn and Champagne. A little bubbly and a little crunchy, buttery, salty popcorn help give the evening an atmosphere of joyous celebration.
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Bet on the winners
What's an Oscar party without a ballot? Give guests a chance to vote on the films and actors they think will win each category, then award the winner (or winners if you're feeling generous) with an Oscar trophy of their own. Just make sure you have music ready to play them off if their acceptance speech runs long.
