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The next Republican presidential debate commences at 6 p.m., this Wednesday, October 28, at the Coors Events Center at the University of Colorado Boulder. While the venue holds around 11,000, the event will be capped at about 1,000 people because of CNBC’s strict rules on the studio audience. Even if you won’t be able to catch the candidates battling it out in person, there are still plenty of ways to watch alongside your fellow citizens:
Student Watch Party at CU Boulder
Because the university wasn’t able to give very many tickets to students and staff, the CU Student Government will host a watch party in the University Memorial Center Glenn Miller Ballroom for students only. Bonus: while CU cannot guarantee appearances from presidential candidates, they’re invited to stop by after the debate is over. Starting at 4:45 p.m.; University Memorial Center, 1669 Euclid Ave., Boulder; free for CU students only
Denver GOP Happy Hour
Eat, drink, and get political as you soak in the drama and tension of the debate. Join the Denver Republican Party at Chopper’s Sports Grill for drink specials and $5 burgers and fries while you watch. 5 to 9:30 p.m; Chopper’s Sport’s Bar, 80 South Madison St.; free
The Reagan Club and Republican Leadership Institute GOP Watch Party
The Reagan Club and the Republican Leadership Institute will co-host a night of political fun, networking, and cutting-edge information from the top Republican presidential candidates at LoD’s Bar and Grill in Westminster. There will be dinner and bar service during the event, and since we’re nearing Halloween, you can even wear your costume. Starting at 6 p.m.; LoDo’s Bar and Grill, 3053 W 104th Ave., Westminster; free
Colorado Republican Committee Official Debate Watch and After Party
You can join the Colorado Republican Committee at the Omni Interlocken Hotel to watch the debate and celebrate afterward. All the presidential candidates have been invited to speak at the event. Visit the website to RSVP or register starting at 3:30 p.m. on debate day. 3:30 to 10 p.m.; Omni Interlocken Hotel, 500 Interlocken Blvd., Broomfield; $40–$75
Colorado Voices of Vision Republican Debate Watch Party
Colorado Voices of Vision is a nonprofit, non-partisan fundraising organization that benefits candidates for Colorado’s local and statewide public offices, and they are hosting a debate watch party at the Colorado Auto Dealers Association (CADA). Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be provided with ticket purchase. Starting at 6 p.m.; Colorado Auto Dealers Association, 209 E. Speer Blvd.; $20
Lincoln Club of Denver Watch Party
Lincoln Club of Colorado, the state’s oldest Republican organization, will host a watch party at the Epernay Lounge in downtown Denver. The nonpartisan event is open to all, and there will be complimentary food and drinks, as well as a cash bar. 4 to 9 p.m.; Epernay Lounge, 1080 14th Street, Denver; Free
BONUS: Catch presidential candidate Ben Carson speak at Colorado Christian University the morning following the debate. Carson is expected to address students and members of the public as part of the school’s Distinguished Speaker Series. Those who plan to attend should RSVP, because space is limited. Seats can be reserved by calling 303-963-3424.