Sports bars are commonplace establishments, perfect for sports fans of all kinds to congregate and mingle. Their popularity shows no signs of slowing down, evolving from a place primarily for sports fans to a third space where anyone can join. Regardless, inclusivity has been an aspect that these spaces struggle with within the industry and amongst its fans
It is unsurprising that sports bars tend to primarily cover male sports events. For decades, the male demographic was the primary demographic for sports viewership and participants. As time passed through the 20th century into the modern era, the industry has changed, allowing women to participate and even establish their own leagues. For many years, professional female sports were a niche and an underrated aspect of the industry. Luckily, that is no longer the case.
Recent years have seen the rise in viewership of professional female sports, thanks to social media pushing highlight reels of popular athletes like Catlin Clark and others. It has gotten to the point that it would be more commonplace in establishments like sports bars to host a live feed of female sports. Reality is often disappointing.
Currently, sports bars still host a majority of male sporting events. Given the infrequency and scarcity of female sporting events in establishments like these, female sports fans are often forced to create their own sports bars. New York City has seen the opening of two of its very first female sports bars, Athena Keke and Wilka’s Sports Bar, in the past year, and more are coming. Over 25 women’s sports bars exist in the United States since the first one opened in 2022, showcasing the need for these establishments.
Not only do these spaces help celebrate and support groups like the WNBA, but they also act as a safe avenue for women fans. Additionally, these establishments act as a space of inclusivity for fans who are a part of the LGBTQ space, since female sports also tend to gravitate towards viewers of that demographic.
