TV Correspondents Dinner: Party Review

The after-dinner parties are one of the highlights of the Radio & Television Correspondents Association Dinner.

Actually, that’s an understatement. Hundreds of TV types mingled at the Wednesday night free-for-alls.

CNN’s party was the most “produced.” Promoted as the “CNN 25 Stage,” the D.J. was stationed in front of a giant neon “CNN” logo. Bartenders worked the middle of the room, below giant plasma screens featuring photos from the party.

But CNN’s party couldn’t hold a candle to Fox News. Attendees could hear the Fox party from halfway down the hall. The deafening music led to a busy, sprawling dance floor. Spotlights with FNC logos twirled around the room. In the corners, tarot card readers and magicians impressed the audience. Roger Ailes mingled for an hour or so, but left early.

I preferred FNC’s party when the guest list was still in effect. Once the doors were opened, the room quickly filled. By 11pm, the interns were out in full force. And by midnight, FNC’s party was clearly the most popular.

While NBC’s party wasn’t as popular as FNC’s, it did have the best food. The chocolate fondue fountain was not to be missed. The hot lamb chops were also a treat. The NBC logo ice sculpture was a fancy centerpiece.