Matcha-Drinking Hipsters Pack Wicker Park For Performative Male Contest

This weekend, Wicker Park hosted a “Performative Male Contest,” attracting around 80 contestants and hundreds of spectators. The event featured men demonstrating traditionally feminine hobbies, competing for homebody matcha vouchers as judges evaluated their performances. Organizer Calvin Thai drew inspiration from similar competitions in Seattle, aiming to promote his matcha business. Contestants engaged in activities such as runway walks and Q&A sessions, with some attempting to impress female audience members. Notably, contestant Carter Wood addressed women's rights in his final pitch, referencing the overturning of Roe v.

Wade as a critical issue. This contest reflects the growing popularity of the performative male archetype on social media, which criticizes men adopting feminine aesthetics for superficial appeal. Contestants like Noah Palozzi even cited feminist literature to bolster their appeal. The event not only entertained but sparked conversations about gender and societal expectations.