Bingo has long been associated with sports centres and community fundraisers in the UK, and now that the game is going through a renaissance, this connection is stronger than ever. Whether it’s offered by major professional sporting leagues or cricket fan clubs, bingo’s simplistic gameplay continues to excite sports fans through numerous events and products.
The Timeless Popularity of Bingo
For centuries, bingo has been enjoyed by people around the world looking for a laid-back, luck-based activity. With the game receiving a digital enhancement in the online gambling age, players now have access to a suite of games that offer diverse themes, wide betting options, and round-the-clock gameplay.
Some of the new bingo games include jackpot prizes or versatile gameplay through Slingo draw systems. There are both virtual games and live games with chat options, which reinforces bingo’s traditions of communal activity. It’s this sense of community that has made it a logical crossover with sports fandom.
Cricket Bingo
As one of England’s most famous cricketing membership clubs, the Barmy Army has helped global cricket lovers tour the world in pursuit of live cricket action since the 1980s. The company has close ties with international cricketing organisations and regularly holds events that bring together fans before and after games.
One of its regular event staples is its UK bingo tours. These high-energy events offer several rounds of bingo as famous cricket songs are played in the background. There are food and beverage packages available and a range of fun prizes available to winners. Events recommence in June 2025, with nights already planned for Leeds, Birmingham, and Manchester.
EFL Bingo
Every year, English Football League team Bolton Wanderers F.C. hosts a Boogie Bingo night, a festive-themed event that helps to raise funds for the team. From 7.30 PM to 1 AM, guests can enjoy a night full of activities, including DJs, dancing, karaoke, competitions, and of course, bingo.
Unlike small-scale bingo events, Boogie Bingo has been known to draw huge crowds, with one extravaganza hosting more than 700 fans of the club. Expect everything from circus performers to valuable cash prizes. Outside of its popular Christmas events, the event is held sporadically over the year.
Baseball Bingo
After the success of Major League Baseball’s London Series, the sport has seen a considerable rise in interest across the UK. One thing that the league shares in common with the British is its love of baseball, which is why it launched Brewer’s Baseball bingo game through its official MLB Ballpark app to coincide with the 2024 season.
The game saw numbers marked on a digital bingo card based on game action, with players earning points if they won. At the end of the month, the top five point earners received a baseball autographed by the Brewers. The game offered an exciting way to enhance the live spectating experience while offering simple competitive action for bingo fans.
Whether playing baseball bingo or celebrating England’s cricket win, bingo is a great way to connect with fellow sports fans over simple competitive action. These products and events provide a unique way to interact with the game, all while honouring bingo’s sports hall traditions.
