“1989 (Taylor’s Version)” listening party at Barrel
It’s not the Capitol Hill whiskey bar’s first party in honor of Taylor’s rerecords — in July, Barrel was one of the first to offer a midnight listening of “Speak Now.” Then it planned the free party in its basement, but demand for tickets was so high that the party spread to both floors. This time, Barrel is charging for tickets ($13 a pop, Swifties will note) that include one Taylor-themed cocktail, a friendship bracelet and a Polaroid to take home, vis-à-vis the album’s original cover. The needle drops at midnight. Regular tickets are sold out, but Barrel will release a few “last call” tickets for $19.89 the midnight before the party. 8 p.m. $13.
“1989 (Taylor’s Version)” listening party at As You Are
The LGBTQ+ bar on Capitol Hill is calling for guests to dress like they would at a stop on the Eras Tour — meaning it might be time to dig out those pink cowboy hats, sparkly boots and fringe jackets. Karaoke starts at 7 p.m., and the night includes a raffle with prizes like a “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” vinyl record, CDs and copies of “Folklore.” Expect a friendship bracelet-making station and Taylor-themed drinks before the new album plays at midnight. Tickets are sold out, but there’s space for a limited number of walk-ins. And for those who’d rather get an early start on the celebrations, check out As You Are’s Wednesday’s pre-party, which includes bracelet and paper airplane making, discounted wine, and one last listen to the original album. 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Midnight release dance party at Birch & Barley
The “Two Paper Airplanes Flying” and “Wine-Stained Dress” are just a couple of the nine specialty cocktails, all named for “1989” lyrics, available at this Show of Hands pop-up. Head bartender Joe Doten has not only traveled for Eras Tour shows but has served as the catalyst for the cocktail bar’s themed dance parties, drink menus and “Swiftie Sundays.” This time, the party is held at 14th Street NW restaurant Birch & Barley, and the full beverage menu (including drinks, like the “Want Who You Want,” that can be made nonalcoholic) is offered up to and during the album release dance party that kicks off at midnight. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free.