Can Muslims go to a bar to watch the big game?
Not usually. Most scholars advise against sitting in a bar or pub where alcohol is being served around you, based on a hadith about not sitting where khamr is circulated. A sports bar is built around drinking, so it's best to watch the game at home, at a friend's place or in an alcohol-free venue.
The hadith behind this
The Prophet ﷺ said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, then he is not to sit at a spread in which Khamr is circulated" (Jami at-Tirmidhi 2801). Khamr means intoxicating drinks. This is the main reason most scholars say Muslims should avoid a bar, even when they only drink water or soda.
Scholars are a little more flexible about restaurants that serve alcohol but are mainly about food, as long as no alcohol is served at your own table. A sports bar is different. Drinking is the point of the place, and a big game often means rounds of drinks. See Can I go to a bar with friends if I only drink soda?
Why a big game is especially tricky
- The game can last two to three hours, which is a long time in a drinking environment.
- Friends and strangers order rounds, so it's hard to avoid the alcohol around you.
- Betting chat, adverts and loud celebrations can add to the pressure.
- Kick-off often falls near a prayer time, which can tempt you to delay it.
If a match clashes with a prayer time, pray first. See Can I delay prayer to finish watching a game?
Good alternatives
- Host at home: invite friends round, serve wings, pizza and mocktails. People rarely turn down free food and a big screen.
- Go to a friend's house: a home setting keeps the fun without the bar.
- Alcohol-free cafes and restaurants: some show big matches. Call ahead to check.
- Community watch parties: some mosques, community centres and Muslim clubs screen finals and big events.
- Streaming alone or with family: it's less social but easy and free from stress.
- Go to the stadium: see Can Muslims go to football stadiums?
How to say no and keep your friends
Your friends probably aren't trying to push you away. Offer a clear alternative: "I'd love to watch it with you. Can we do it at my place? I'll sort the food." Keep it positive and don't lecture them about their drinking. Over time, they will learn that you're up for the game, just not the pub. See How can sports replace pub nights for a new Muslim?
- Most scholars say not to sit where alcohol is passed around, even if you only drink soda.
- A sports bar is built around drinking, so avoid it when you can.
- Watch at home, at a friend's house or in an alcohol-free venue.
- Never delay prayer to finish a match.
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