Monday night marks the first debate between the two major parties' nominees.
For those that don't do cable and would rather not depend on a sketchy web stream, there are tons of watch parties throughout the area. Some are being put on by Hillary Clinton supporters, others by Trump backers and a few are neutral. But they all have one thing in common: all serve as an excuse to get loaded on a Monday night. (And here's a debate night drinking game that's easy to follow.)
Some party locales include:
The Pinellas County Stonewall Democrats will be partying at the Queen's Head in St. Pete (2501 Central ave.) starting at 7 p.m.
A bit down the road, others plan to gather at Punky's Bar and Grill (3063 Central Ave.) at 7 p.m., though no candidate was specified as a favorite.
Trump fans in Pinellas plan on gathering at Quaker Steak & Lube at 10400 U.S. 19 in Clearwater as well as Mugs Sports Bar at 15303 Icot Blvd. (also in Clearwater).
Across the Bay, Trump fans can catch the debate at The Hideaway at 1120 E. Kennedy in Tampa beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Clinton supporters, meanwhile, including Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, State Rep. Ed Narain and former state CFO Alex Sink will be at Fodder & Shine (5910 N. Florida Ave.) starting at 8 p.m. The Hillsborough County Young Democrats plans on gathering at Yucatan Live Bar & Grill at 6:30 p.m.
In West Tampa, the progressive group Organize Now will be hanging out at Wings and Buckets (7507 Armenia) starting at 8 p.m.
Unattached voters in Tampa can head to the Mermaid Tavern (6719 Nebraska Ave.) for a party that starts at 8 p.m. Also in Seminole Heights, a debate night shindig at Southern Brewing begins at 7 p.m.
This article appears in Sep 22-29, 2016.