PokerStars Ushers in a New Era of Women's Poker with Women's Winter Festival

PokerStars has long been a beacon in the poker world, synonymous with innovation, diversity, and the celebration of the game in all its forms. As the European Poker Tour in Barcelona marks the tour's 20th anniversary with much fanfare, a special announcement has set the stage for a significant leap forward in women's poker. During a delightful Ladies Day Breakfast, Kerryjane Craigie, a renowned ambassador for the spadie brand, unveiled plans for the Women’s Winter Festival, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at galvanizing women's participation in live poker.

Key Takeaways:

• PokerStars announces the Women’s Winter Festival, aiming to empower women in poker.
• The festival features a £100,000 guarantee on its Main Event, showcasing PokerStars' commitment to women's poker.
• The event is a result of intensive planning and input from female players worldwide.

Set against the backdrop of the historic Hippodrome Casino, from November 21-24, the Women’s Winter Festival is not just an event; it's a statement. With a bold £100,000 guarantee for the Main Event, which includes three starting flights and a £400 buy-in, PokerStars is laying down the gauntlet and challenging women to take their seat at the table, literally and metaphorically.

This isn't the first time PokerStars has championed women's poker. Their collaboration with Poker Power for the Women’s Bootcamp was a testament to their long-standing support. However, the Women’s Winter Festival is a leap into uncharted territory, a dedicated festival celebrating and empowering female players in a predominantly male-dominated arena.

Kerryjane Craigie, the brainchild behind this initiative and the Director of Poker at the Hippodrome Casino, has poured her heart and soul into this project. Drawing from focus groups and discussions with female players from across the globe, Craigie's vision is clear: to create an environment that not only welcomes but also inspires women to engage with poker at a competitive level.

"I am so excited about this event; honing in on the schedule and finalizing the details truly gave me goosebumps," shared an enthusiastic Craigie. "Opportunities for women to access more inspirational poker events drive all that I do."

The festival isn't limited to the Women’s Only Main Event. It also introduces a unique 50/50 NLH Freezeout, encouraging men and women to participate together, fostering a spirit of equality and partnership. This £220 one-day event is a testament to PokerStars' innovative approach, promoting inclusivity and camaraderie among players.

Moreover, the festival's schedule boasts an open £220 NHL Single Re-Entry tournament and a Women’s Closer Freeroll, with the latter offering an enticing package to EPT Prague for the champion, among other prizes.

Anticipation is also building around the online satellites starting September 22, open exclusively to women in the .COM market, alongside dedicated events for players in France, Spain, and Portugal. The inclusivity extends to live satellites in the United States and a special qualifier at the Hippodrome, ensuring diverse participation.

As we edge closer to the festival, the poker community watches with bated breath, eager to witness the impact of this pioneering event. PokerStars, with its unwavering dedication to enriching the poker landscape, is not just hosting a tournament; it's crafting a legacy, one that promises a brighter, more inclusive future for women in poker.