A couple of local Oscar parties are giving you the excuse to whip out that gown (or tux) and slink down a red carpet. The officially sanctioned Oscar Night Party hosted by the Aegis Foundation is the biggest. The evening includes a viewing of the telecast, photo ops, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and dessert, a best-dressed contest and a silent auction, with all proceeds benefiting local youth organizations.

The Mall of America is also hosting an Oscar event, screening the show in its VIP theater and offering drawings for prizes. The catch: You can only get in by winning tickets; e-mail theatres@mallofamerica.com with "OSCAR VIP PARTY" in the subject line, listing who you think should win an Oscar.

Literary journal Opium is at it again with its annual battle of the scribes. The San Francisco-based publication has expanded Literary Death Match to 28 cities worldwide and even signed on for its own television show. How it works: Four established or emerging authors read their original (and often funny) verse in front of a panel of judges for seven minutes each. The judges' favorites advance to the finals, and the winning author gets a prize, often in the form of a publishing contract. Coming to the Twin Cities is a Midwest mini-tour of authors including Jean Borich ("My Lesbian Husband"), Matt Burgess ("Dogfight," "A Love Story"), Nicole Helgit ("The Turtle Catcher") and Brad Liening ("Ghosts and Doppelgangers"). Judges include local literary honchos Jeff Kamin (producer of the brilliant Books & Bars), Brave New Workshop's Mike Fotis and Ellen Stanley of Mother Banjo, with LDM creator Todd Zuniga as host.