The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off soon, and several U.S. states are adjusting their alcohol laws in preparation for the event. The tournament will begin on June 11 and run through July 19, drawing millions of visitors to North America. In response, lawmakers across the nation have approved measures to extend alcohol service hours, create expanded drinking districts, and issue special fan-zone alcohol permits.

Alcohol Law Changes Across Various States

New York

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation allowing bars and restaurants throughout New York to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. during the World Cup. This change aims to standardize closing times across the state and boost business opportunities due to increased tourism and spending related to the World Cup.

Kansas

Kansas has temporarily expanded alcohol service hours for the tournament. Establishments can serve alcohol from 6 a.m. until 5 a.m., offering some of the country’s longest operating hours during this period.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts extended last call to 3 a.m. during the World Cup. The state has also permitted municipalities to create designated public drinking districts connected to celebrations and major events.

Missouri

A statewide exemption in Missouri allows bars and restaurants to serve alcohol from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m. from June 11 to July 19. This measure supports tourism and events associated with the World Cup.

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia establishments can stay open two extra hours during the World Cup and America250 celebrations, as per legislation signed by Governor Josh Shapiro. Participating venues may serve alcohol later than typically allowed, with permits enabling them to maintain operations until 4 a.m.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s legislation allows bars and restaurants in five towns and cities to extend indoor liquor licenses. Establishments can remain open until 4 a.m., with alcohol service ending at 3 a.m., from June 11 to July 3.

Washington

Expanded alcohol service areas in Washington have been authorized for the World Cup. Special fan-zone permits allow alcohol service in designated public spaces, surpassing standard limits. Host city Seattle, along with Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, Everett, Olympia/Lacey, Yakima, Bremerton, Bellingham, and the Tri-Cities, may permit expanded alcohol sales during June and July.

Georgia

Georgia has relaxed certain open-container restrictions to facilitate fan events and public gatherings tied to World Cup activities.

New Jersey

New Jersey measures offer municipalities greater flexibility to extend alcohol-service hours and adapt to World Cup-related events. Local officials will determine the application of these changes.

The Reasons Behind These Changes

The upcoming World Cup is anticipated to be the largest in its history, featuring 48 teams and over 100 matches across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Host cities and surrounding states aim to encourage spending at bars, restaurants, and fan festivals, while managing large crowds more effectively. Despite these opportunities, some businesses may refrain from altering their operations due to staffing costs, security needs, transportation concerns, and local permitting restrictions.

The tournament officially begins on June 11 and concludes with the final match on July 19.