See ‘Game of Thrones’ Season 8 premiere at free watch parties around Philly
Don't have HBO? No worries. Head to one of these free, open-to-the-public watch parties.
Spring may be here in Philly, but winter is just kicking off for our favorite characters in Westeros as the final season of Game of Thrones premieres at 9 p.m. Sunday. With it comes the return of GoT watch parties, which grew so popular in Chicago and New York in 2015 that HBO issued cease-and-desist letters.
Watch parties are fewer and farther between in Philly — Frankford Hall had a long-running tradition of hosting — but a handful are happening, some all season long. If you don’t have HBO, or if you prefer to wait out the “who’s going to die next?” suspense with fellow enthusiasts, head to one of these. Bonus: Many watch parties have giveaways and trivia with prizes.
Atomic City Comics
The South Street comic book store holds free watch parties all season long. Serious fans, come prepared. There will be cosplay, trivia, prizes, and discussions afterward.
9 p.m. to midnight, Atomic City Comics, 638 South St.
James Philadelphia
The Center City tavern is pouring Brewery Ommegang’s Royal Reserve Game of Thrones collection, which includes brews named in honor of Jon Snow and Cersei Lannister. If beer isn’t your thing, order a White Walker cocktail. Reservations are encouraged, and episodes will be screened all season long.
8:30 to 11:30 p.m., James Philadelphia, 1835 Arch St.
Bainbridge Street Barrel House
The Queen Village gastropub is pouring Game of Thrones drink specials all night long and putting on the episode at 9 p.m.
8 p.m., Bainbridge Street Barrel House, 625-627 S. Sixth St.
Battlesword Philly
The city’s only Battlesword league (which is exactly what it sounds like) will project the premiere theater-style in its East Falls gym. BYOB is encouraged, and you can even watch — or try, if you’re brave — swordfighting beforehand.
9 p.m. to midnight, Battlesword Philly, 3578 Scotts Lane, Sherman Mills Unit #18.
Infusion Lounge Philly
While we learn the fate of characters in the North and King’s Landing, Old City’s ritzy club will serve GoT-inspired cocktails and house-sigil Scotch by the flight. Reservations are encouraged.
8 to 11 p.m., Infusion Lounge, 16 S. Second St., second floor
Old Rail Tavern
The Old Rail Tavern in Barrington presents a themed menu in honor of the premiere. Diners are encouraged to dress up to show their house pride. Bar seats are limited, so consider making a reservation.
8 p.m., Old Rail Tavern, 101 Clements Bridge Rd., Barrington