It’s almost Election Day (Nov. 5, if you need the reminder), and Northern Virginia is here for it. Local venues are rewarding the ultimate civic duty—voting—with discounts on food and drinks, on-theme doughnuts, and big ol’ watch parties where you can monitor vote tallies with a crowd as the polls close.
Arlington Drafthouse
Watch the results roll in on the big screen while downing drink specials at this vintage theater on the Pike. Admission is free, but if you have a group of five or more, send an email ahead of time to reserve seating. // 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington (Columbia Pike)
Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken
Feel like stress eating? Pre-order a limited-edition Election Mini Box ($35) of doughnuts to get a sugar fix on Tuesday. It includes five flavors: candy apple, chocolate chip, crème brûlée, pumpkin pie and vanilla. Or ask for the “I Voted” vanilla doughnut ($4.95), available by pre-order or in the restaurant. // 4001 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)
Busboys and Poets Presidential Election Night Watch Party
On Nov. 5 at 7 p.m., pull up a seat and take in the action alongside “progressives who are committed to fighting for peace, social justice, and equality—no matter the outcome,” according to an email promoting the gathering. Enjoy happy hour food and drink specials all night long, plus get 10% off your bill when you show an “I Voted” sticker. // 2451 S. Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)
Immigrant Food
The recently opened Ballston outpost of this gastroadvocacy establishment is offering half-off bottles of wine throughout the evening on Election Day. // 4245 Fairfax Drive, Arlington (Ballston)
Neutral Ground Bar + Kitchen
Staying true to its name, this new McLean restaurant under the purview of chef David Guas, is combining red and blue to make the purple Flower Power cocktail. It’s made with Thrasher’s white rum, pisco, butterfly pea flower, lime, simple syrup and egg whites. // 6641 Old Dominion Drive, McLean
Thompson Restaurants
Does democracy make you hungry? This restaurant group, which owns Big Buns, Matchbox, Wiseguy Pizza, Makers Union and 10 other eateries in the DMV, will take 10% off your meal when you show your “I Voted” sticker on Election Day. Check the website for locations.
Smokecraft Modern Barbecue
Take 25% off all appetizers and enjoy an all-night happy hour starting at 7 p.m. tonight. Plus, you’ll get to cast another vote, this time for your favorite barbecue to win a $100 gift card. // 1051 N. Highland St., Arlington (Clarendon)
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Sweeten up Election Day with a $3 scoop at the ice cream shop’s newest location in National Landing. Just show your “I Voted” sticker to get the deal. // 269 19th Court S., Arlington (National Landing)