U.S. States Extend Bar Hours for 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is about to begin, and several U.S. states are introducing temporary changes to alcohol laws to accommodate the event. The tournament, running from June 11 to July 19, is set to draw millions of visitors to North America.

Alcohol Law Changes Across U.S. States

Lawmakers are implementing measures to allow later last calls, expanded drinking districts, and special fan-zone alcohol permits. In the past, host countries have adjusted alcohol regulations for the World Cup. For example, during the 2022 World Cup, Qatar allowed beer sales in specific fan zones, even though public alcohol consumption is typically illegal there.

Here are some states changing their alcohol laws for the upcoming tournament:

New York

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation permitting bars and restaurants across New York to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. throughout the tournament. This standardizes closing times across the state, aiming to help businesses capitalize on increased tourism and spending.

Kansas

Kansas has temporarily extended alcohol service hours. Establishments can serve alcohol from 6 a.m. until 5 a.m., providing some of the longest operating hours in the nation during the World Cup period.

Massachusetts

The state approved extending last calls to 3 a.m. during the World Cup. Furthermore, municipalities can establish public drinking districts tied to World Cup celebrations and other significant events.

Missouri

Bars and restaurants will be allowed to operate from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m. from June 11 to July 19. This statewide exemption, signed by Governor Mike Kehoe, is meant to support tourism and events related to the World Cup.

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia establishments will be able to stay open two hours longer during the World Cup and America250 celebrations, following legislation signed by Governor Josh Shapiro. Many city establishments have already applied to remain open until 4 a.m.

Rhode Island

Five towns and cities in Rhode Island can extend their indoor liquor licenses between June 11 and July 3. This permits bars and restaurants to operate until 4 a.m., with alcohol service until 3 a.m.

Washington

Washington has expanded alcohol service areas through special fan-zone permits, allowing sales in designated public spaces. This includes Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, and other cities as official and fan-zone locations.

Georgia

Georgia has eased some open-container restrictions for World Cup festivities. This change simplifies organizing fan events and public gatherings in the host communities.

New Jersey

New Jersey has approved measures to grant municipalities the flexibility to extend alcohol-service hours. Local officials will decide how to implement these powers during the tournament.

Reason for Changes

The World Cup aims to be the largest in its history, featuring 48 teams and over 100 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Extended hours and relaxed regulations intend to boost spending at bars, restaurants, and fan festivals, facilitating large gatherings.

However, not every business will take advantage of these changes. Factors such as staffing costs, security, transportation, and local permitting could influence whether venues opt to remain open longer.