Hoping to be saved, ‘a queer bar in Boise’ turns to crowdfunding
A downtown Boise bar that opened “with a bang” has turned to crowdfunding six years later.
Water Bear Bar, 350 N. 9th St., recently launched a $100,000 fundraising goal on Indiegogo.
“Save Water Bear Bar,” it declares. “A queer bar in Boise, Idaho.”
“Water Bear Bar is a queer woman-owned cocktail bar where everyone is not only welcome but celebrated,” the campaign’s message begins. “In a state where being different can still be dangerous, Water Bear stands proudly as a sanctuary for the marginalized — a cozy, defiant gem rooted in world-class hospitality and unshakable community values. But we need your help to keep the party going.”
A flexible goal of $100,000 has been set, meaning Water Bear Bar will receive all funds even if the goal isn’t reached.
Water Bear Bar debuted in summer of 2019 “with a bang,” it says on Indiegogo. “The cocktail lounge was packed every night, the best party in town had arrived.”
But the COVID-19 pandemic soon caused a year-plus shutdown. Water Bear has faced a series of hurdles since reopening. Those have ranged from “great mismanagement that has since been removed and remedied,” it says on Indiegogo, to rising costs and an economic environment in which “many patrons are facing uncertainty amidst the current administration, and records show they are spending less.”
So far, $4,442 of the $100,000 goal has been generated from 67 backers. There are 54 days remaining in the campaign.
“Whether you’ve walked through our doors before or just believe in the power of radical hospitality, this is your chance to build something with us,” Water Bear explains. “A $10 donation? Beautiful. Sharing this with friends? Powerful. A larger contribution? Transformative.”
This story was originally published June 9, 2025 at 4:16 PM.