5 tips for throwing the best Oscars party in Calgary

By Jodi Egan

In 2016, 5.5 million Canadians watched the Oscars from home. Many tuned in to support their favourite films or actors, but most (I assume) to appreciate all the elaborate fashion choices celebrities made before sauntering down the red carpet. With actors like Ryan Gosling, Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep (duh), Emma Stone and Viola Davis all nominated for roles on the silver screen, it’s bound to be an eventful evening at the 2017 Oscars. On Feb. 26, get into the Oscar spirit by throwing the quintessential Oscars viewing party.

By following these tips, you may even land yourself your own Oscar nomination for Best Host. [Image credit: Julia Gunst, Calgary International Film Festival]

The most important part of any party, Oscar or otherwise, hinges on the spread. And what better to celebrate a lavish Hollywood awards party with friends than with some stylish, delectable cupcakes? Lakeview Bakery is your home for all your sweet tooth needs, even specializing in gluten-free and dairy-free pastries and cakes for guests with dietary needs. You can even add a splash of class by picking up one of Lakeview Bakery’s wide selection of fine European imports.

Whether you’re serving champagne and fine wines or just keeping it simple with beer and spirits, refreshments are a must at any party. Willow Park Wines and Spirits, the largest private wine and spirits merchant in Canada, has you covered. It has even been named Calgary’s Top Wine and Liquor Store by Calgary Herald readers, so you know you’ll have no issue with quality and selection.

Why do only the actors, directors and other red carpet hotshots get to wear tuxes and gowns? This is your Oscar party, so don’t be afraid to look the part. Ladies, make it a formal affair –without breaking the bank on Chanel and Manolo Blahnik – by heading over to Peacock Boutique Consignment for fabulous furs and cocktail dresses. Gentlemen, get your dapper duds at Man of Distinction consignment, which houses both new and used fashions that put Ryan Gosling to shame.

Let’s be honest – watching celebrities walk down a red carpet, clap for one another and give long-winded “thank you” speeches for hours can have lulls from time to time. Keep the entertainment going with this free online printable Oscars Bingo game. Take things up a notch by dropping the file off at The Digital Post, choosing some quality cardstock to make this fun game pop with professionalism.

Hosting not in your wheelhouse? No problem. As they say, there are no small roles — only small actors. Forgo the party planning and do some good for the community by joining the Calgary International Film Festival Oscar Party Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. Hosted by Mike Morrison from Mike’s Bloggity Blog and Kathy Le from CTV Calgary, you’ll get the full Oscars experience while supporting CIFF and their annual film fest. Tickets range from $60 to $100, and both include food and a welcome beverage.

The Oscars — though arguably a bunch of beautiful, talented, rich people presenting each other awards for being beautiful, talented and rich — is a great opportunity to get together with friends and family to celebrate the films that brought joy to your life last year. Whether you’re going all out with an awards party, or just going out with CIFF, enjoy a fun and safe celebration while supporting some of the fabulous organizations and business in your community.