Election Day in Los Angeles offers a range of freebies and discounts designed to encourage civic participation. These incentives are available to individuals who present an "I Voted" sticker or participate in voting activities. The offers span transportation services, food and beverage deals, and entertainment options, all aimed at rewarding voters for their engagement in the democratic process. The availability of these deals is tied specifically to Election Day, with many local businesses and service providers participating by offering special promotions.
Transportation and Travel Incentives
Voters in Los Angeles can access free transportation options on Election Day through the Metro system. The Metro system, including buses, trains, Metro Bike Share, and Metro Micro, offers free rides to facilitate travel to polling places. To further support accessibility, ballot drop boxes have been installed at nine key stations, including Union Station, El Monte Bus Transit Center, and the Norwalk C Line. Additionally, the Metro headquarters at Union Station functions as a voting center, operating from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Ride-sharing services also provide discounted transportation to polling locations. A 50% discount is available for trips to a polling place, capped at a $10 discount. To redeem this offer, the code VOTE24 must be used on or before November 5. Furthermore, Uber Eats offers a 25% discount (up to $15) on orders of $25 or more, valid between 6 PM on November 5 and 7 AM on November 6.
Food and Beverage Deals
Numerous restaurants and bars in Los Angeles offer special deals for voters. These establishments require the presentation of an "I Voted" sticker to qualify for the promotions. The offers include free items, discounted menu options, and themed cocktails.
Restaurants and Bars with "I Voted" Sticker Requirements
- Red O Restaurants: Offers a happy hour menu featuring $3 street tacos (short rib, chicken, carnitas), $6 corn and goat tamales, and $10 ahi tuna tartare. Select wines and margaritas are available for $7.
- The Independence: Features $5 draft craft beer and specialty cocktails, including the Bad Hombre tequila cocktail, Nasty Woman vodka drink, and Straight Outta Options Long Island variation. An Uncle Sam Drawing at 9 PM offers a chance to win gift cards.
- The Lincoln: Invites guests to bring "Born in the USA"-inspired vinyl and mixtapes for resident DJs to play.
- Taste on Melrose: Provides a happy hour menu all day with $6 house cocktails, house wine, Pomegranate Basil Sangria, and draft beers. Patriotic-inspired cocktails are also available. Voters with an "I Voted" sticker receive a complimentary glass of bubbly with purchase.
- Plan Check Kitchen + Bar: Offers election-themed specials, including the Nasty Woman burger (Sriracha leather) and the Bad Hombre burger (habanero cheese, spicy mayo). Drink specials include The Candidate ($8), Make Americanos Great Again ($8), and a $2 shot of Crown Royale Canadian Whisky.
- Harlowe (part of the 1933 Group, including Sassafras and Highland Park Bowl): Provides a free shot of booze to those with an "I Voted" sticker from 5 PM to 2 AM. Harlowe broadcasts election coverage on its big screen.
- Salt's Cure: Features the $10 "Red, White, and Blue Swizzle" cocktail (rum, lime, blue curacao, bitters).
- Big Bar: Hosts a drink night for the occasion.
- The Wallace: Offers "Make America Drunk Again" specials with $8 classic cocktails (daiquiri, Aviation), $4 draft beer, and an $8 bucket of chicken thighs with hot sauce. Free Calabrian chili and garlic popcorn is available for everyone at the bar.
- AR Cucina: Broadcasts election coverage and offers happy hour prices, including half-price domestic wines, to voters with an "I Voted" sticker. Themed cocktails include Nasty Woman (cinnamon-infused whiskey) and Bad Hombre (mezcal, chili liqueur).
- The Abbey Food & Bar: Hosts an Election Night party starting at 4 PM with election coverage on all screens.
- Hyperion Public (Silver Lake and Studio City): Features American "F Yeah" Election Day parties with happy hour prices from 4 PM to 7 PM. Offers include $6 grilled cheese and crispy shrimp tacos, $3 canned PBR and Tecate, $5 draft beer, and $6 cocktails (Old Fashioned, Dark and Stormy).
- HACHÉ LA: Provides burger specials, including the spicy Habanero Burger and the Karma Burger, plus a pitcher of sangria. Voters with an "I Voted" sticker receive an order of Mick’s Triple Cooked Fries.
- The Association: Hosts a bipartisan Election Night Party starting at 5 PM.
Food Establishments with Specific Freebies
- Krispy Kreme: Offers a free original glazed donut ("DOUGHmocracy") with no purchase or proof of vote necessary.
- Multiple Locations (Diner): A 24-hour diner offers a buy-one, get-one entree deal with an "I Voted" sticker.
- Larchmont: Offers a complimentary tiramisu with dine-in and an "I Voted" sticker.
- Grand Central Market Location: Gives out free craft beers.
- Multiple Locations (Ice Cream): Offers a $3 scoop of ice cream with an "I Voted" sticker.
- Multiple Locations (Milkshake): Offers a free milkshake with an in-store purchase on Election Day.
- Multiple Locations (Pizza): Offers $6 off a large or extra-large pizza.
- Multiple Locations (General): Offers 15% off with an "I Voted" sticker.
Entertainment and Themed Events
Beyond food and transportation, some venues offer entertainment and interactive experiences. The Association positions itself as a bipartisan bar welcoming all sides. Redbird features guest bartender Tobin Shea, who serves historical cocktails corresponding to state results as they are reported. These drinks are served only after reports are received. Shea also created cocktails inspired by "Madame President" and "Mr. President," with the winning cocktail available for the rest of the month once the next POTUS is determined.
Conclusion
Los Angeles provides a variety of incentives for voters on Election Day, ranging from free public transportation to complimentary food and discounted drinks at local establishments. The primary requirement for most food and beverage offers is the presentation of an "I Voted" sticker. These deals are designed to make the voting experience more rewarding and to foster community engagement during the election process. Consumers are advised to check specific location details and offer validity directly with the participating businesses, as terms may vary.