On March 7, Oscar Night® America, a nationwide evening of Oscar viewing fund raising galas that in 16 years has raised nearly $27 million for dozens of local charities is coming to New York City for the first time. And what better city is there to celebrate the year's biggest night in film?

As the pivotal backdrop to dozens of Academy Award winning movies from The Apartment and West Side Story to Annie Hall andMidnight Cowboy, not to mention some of this year's favorites such as Precious and Julie & Julia, New York City's iconic streets, neighborhoods and landmarks have been central to filmmaking since the early days of cinema.

Photo: Iwan Baan

At Oscar Night® and the City, NYC's official Oscar Night America benefit, movie lovers can relish the unparalleled glamour and suspense of the Academy Awards in style at Lincoln Center's gloriously renovated Alice Tully Hall. Guests will be treated to a reception with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at 7pm followed by a live broadcast viewing of the 82nd Academy Awards in the grand concert hall.

Kick back in your seat and enjoy the show or mingle in the majestic foyer with a drink in hand. An open bar runs throughout the evening with like minded film buffs, industry insiders and Hollywood glitterati. Tickets sell for $150 though a limited number of premium tickets which allow access to the VIP lounge and exclusive screening room go for $225.

To purchase tickets please visit nycona.eventbrite.com. All Oscar Night and the City proceeds will be donated directly to the NYC & Company Foundation, a charitable and educational organization that supports New York City tourism by promoting the hundreds of nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that make visiting and living in New York City special and exciting. So don your red carpet best and experience the big night at this unforgettable event while giving back to the city that sets the world's bar for arts, culture and cinema.