These Parties Are Political

One benefit in going to election-night parties is that at least 50% of the time you’ll run into people who really have something to celebrate. These political fiestas can be joyous affairs. Or they can be as funereal as a wedding where the bridegroom’s a no-show.

Either way, election-night parties are a bit of history. Whatever side you’re rooting for, going to an election shindig on Nov. 3 can be fun. After all, they do call them political parties.

Some tips on how to enjoy them:

* Historically (and what is an election if not a shot at sharing a moment in history?) the Democrats have had their main party in downtown Los Angeles at the Biltmore, while the Republicans use the Century Plaza Hotel in Century City. For details, call the Republican Party at (818) 841-5210, and the Democratic Party at (213) 343-1908.

* Traditionally the parties are free. Most of the time you can just walk into the main ballroom and mill to your heart’s content.

* There is usually a room for big-money donors with food, better drink and a better chance for making career-enhancing connections. At the Democratic party, the best way to find these rooms is to ask someone who looks like a Republican. This is probably a large donor. Of course at Republican affairs, everyone looks like a donor. . . .

* The Biltmore parking lot is outrageously expensive. It’s best to search for street parking or park across the street in the underground lot. The best bet at the Century Plaza is the parking structure behind the hotel.

* Eat early and bring money. There are cash bars in the main ballroom. Unless you have a reason to be lobbied for something, there’s no such thing as a free drink--or free food.

* The dress mode is usually business attire (with comfortable shoes). But don’t wear your best. This is the perfect environment for spilled red wine.

* Presidential parties peak early in California. As soon as the polls close, the television networks usually make their predictions. The excitement is usually in the local races where the results come in later and supporters have more time to drink before the good--or bad--news arrives.

* Bring a camera with a flash. It’s a historical moment.