Here are some free things you can get on Election Day

Soon, we'll know who the next president of the United States will be and, needless to say, this is one of the most contentious and anxiety-inducing elections in recent memory—especially since recent polls have shown that the two candidates are currently neck-and-neck. 

Even though we're all biting our nails, there is one silver lining for New Yorkers: businesses all over the city are offering free stuff and discounts to those who vote. 

Here are some items you can enjoy gratis, as long as you present your "I voted" sticker! 

RECOMMENDED: You can grab a limited-edition Olivia Rodrigo MetroCard starting on Monday

1. Free beer

One bar, the East Harlem Bottling Co, located at 1711 Lexington Avenue, in the part of Harlem known as El Barrio, is hosting a watch party during which they will gift a free beer to anyone who shows up with an "I voted" sticker on Election Day (that would be Tuesday, November 5). 

You might want to consider ordering some fare off the menu while there as well. Perhaps the Bottling Co burger, made with a house-blend patty, sharp cheddar, pickles, lettuce, tomato, onion and bacon aioli served on a brioche bun. 

2. Bagels—gratis

Violife, the dairy-free cheese brand, is setting up Election Day pop-up breakfast trucks where you can get free Utopia bagels slathered in, of course, Violife's dairy free cream cheese.

Utopia is often considered one of the city's top bagel destinations so, if you've never had one, next Tuesday would be the perfect time to do so. The trucks will open at 7am until 1pm near polling stations including Midtown ( 311 W 57th Street), Tribeca (110 W Broadway) and Downtown Brooklyn (44 Court Street) or until supplies last. 

3. A free drag show and pizza

If you're planning on going out and getting drunk on Election Day (which, regardless of the result, might be a good idea), consider heading to gay bar and club Hells Kitchen's Balcon Salon. The destination is hosting a watch party complete with drag queens and free pizza with no cover starting at 7pm. 

4. A complementary game of ping pong

If you're less keen on partying, maybe you can play a meditative game of ping pong instead? SPIN, the iconic ping pong social club, is offering those who show up with their "I voted" stickers a free hour to play the game on November 5.

We know what you're thinking: are businesses allowed to offer free stuff to people who vote? Well, technically, no—giving voters incentives before and after voting is not allowed, according to the New York Times (and the federal government). Still, there aren't any real life examples of businesses getting in legal trouble for encouraging people to vote and, let's admit it, the practice is an ingrained part of our culture at this point.

So whether it's because of free beer, bagels or pizza, these are just more reasons to vote in this general election. Not that you needed them, since you were going to vote anyway... right?

5. Free shots at Please Tell Me

Screw it, today calls for a shot. If you head to Please Tell Me in Williamsburg, all you need to do is present your sticker for a freebie. But before you knock it back and peace out, stick around for their Election Night party complete with strong drinks, $11 martinis, smash burgers and tunes all night long.  

6. Free milkshake at Creamline

Hey, you voted today. You deserve something special. Fast-casual burger joint Creamline located inside Chelsea Market is offering free milkshakes if you present your "I Voted" sticker. Choose your level of indulgence flavor, from vanilla and strawberry to chocolate fudge and cookies and cream, and cheers to doing your civic duty. 

7. Free Doughnuts

Need we say more? Show off your "I Voted" sticker to participating Krispy Kreme locations for a free Original Glazed doughnut, limited to one per customer. Now if you go ahead an order a dozen after the fact just to deal with the stressors of the day, we won't fault you. 

8. Free Bagel

Nothing more New York than voting and getting a bagel. Head to the Ess-a-Bagel location near Penn Station (108 W 32nd Street) or Midtown East (831 3rd avenue) to show your sticker and snag a free bagel, schmears and toppings not included.