The Rise of Women-Only Nightclubs: A Safe Space for Mothers to Unwind
In an elegant Paris nightclub near the Champs-Elysees, dozens of middle-aged women dance the night away in a rare environment – one with barely any men in sight. This growing phenomenon of women-only nightclubs is gaining global momentum, offering mothers and working women a unique space to socialize and relax.
A Night Out Without the Pressure
At Raspoutine club’s recent “Diva” event – an exclusive women’s party held on a Tuesday evening – the only men present were bartenders and entertainers. The concept, organized by promoter Constance d’Amecourt and two friends, specifically targets mothers looking to unwind after their daily responsibilities.
“It’s an afterwork concept from 7 pm to 10 pm, exclusively for women, mainly aimed at mothers but not only,” d’Amecourt explained. “For those who want to relax after a workday or the after-school homework-bath-dinner rush with their kids.”
The event’s immediate success has prompted organizers to move the next edition in April to a significantly larger venue. Similar concepts have emerged across Europe, including Germany’s “Mama Geht Tanzen” (Mum Goes Dancing) and Britain’s “Mums That Rave.”
The Benefits of Women-Only Spaces
Attendees highlight several advantages to these women-only events, from family-friendly hours to the liberating atmosphere free from male presence.
“We party right away. It’s efficient, there’s no time to waste. We can go to bed early and get back to our husbands and kids,” said Julie, a 37-year-old communications manager.
“The fact that there are no men allows us to let go much more easily. We relax very quickly, without judgment, without feeling watched. There’s a strong sense of sisterhood among us. We’re not here to flirt or pick up anyone – we’re just here to have fun,” she added.
Isaure, mother of two young children, noted: “With men around, women pay more attention to their appearance, worry about being judged, or feel the need to flirt. Here, we let go completely.”
Safety and Peace of Mind
Security emerges as another significant draw for these events, with attendees appreciating the freedom from concerns about drink spiking or unwanted male attention.
“When I go out, I never take my eyes off my drink for fear that someone might slip something into it. Here, we feel safe,” explained Kelly Foret, 32, who organizes similar “Mum and Her Friends” parties in Nantes.
At Diva events, the €45 (R886) entrance fee includes drinks and a light buffet. The atmosphere remains relaxed, with drinks often left unattended on tables – a rarity in conventional nightclubs.
Early Nights, Fresh Mornings
The events wrap up by 10 pm, signaled by French-Italian pop icon Dalida’s classic “Mourir sur scene.” This early conclusion allows participants to return home refreshed for their family responsibilities.
“It feels like it’s already 2 am,” said Indre, a mother-of-two. “But we’re neither drunk nor exhausted. By 11 pm, I’ll be in bed, and tomorrow at 7 am, I’ll be ready to make my kids’ breakfast,” added Elisabeth.
Could This Trend Work in South Africa?
As this movement gains international traction, many wonder if women-only nightclubs could find success in South Africa. The concept addresses universal concerns about safety and the need for judgment-free social spaces for mothers and working women.
© Agence France-Presse
What do you think about women-only nightclubs? Could they work in South Africa? Share your thoughts in the comments below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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