Gov. Kathy Hochul on June 9 signed legislation which temporarily extends permissible hours for bars and restaurants to operate and sell alcoholic beverages during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new law allows establishments with state liquor licenses to sell alcoholic beverages until 4 a.m. from June 11 through July 20 of this year. The temporary change does not apply where the State Liquor Authority has imposed more restrictive hours as a condition of a license.
The State Legislature and governor believe the change will help bars, restaurants and other on-premises establishments meet increased demand during one of the world’s largest sporting events, while maintaining an orderly and time-limited framework for alcohol service.
“The World Cup is coming to New York and I want every New Yorker and local business to be part of the action and celebration, no ticket required,” Hochul said. “From the first kick to the last whistle, bars and restaurants across our state can stay open throughout the tournament, bringing New Yorkers together to cheer on every goal and supporting small businesses across the state.”
According to New York State Liquor Authority Chair Lily M. Fan, “New York’s restaurants, bars, taverns and hospitality businesses will play an important role in welcoming fans from around the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This legislation gives local businesses a clear, temporary framework to serve visitors during this once-in-a-generation event.”
State Sen. James Skoufis of Orange County’s 42nd State Senate District who was lead sponsor of the legislation in the Senate said, “With 1.2 million visitors expected to arrive in the region for the World Cup this summer, this temporary expansion of operating hours will make this once-in-a-lifetime event memorable for New York fans, as well as a boon for small businesses.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe of central New York’s 127th Assembly District who coordinated with Skoufis said, “The World Cup is an event watched by billions of people across the world and millions right here in New York. Communities across the state will gather together to enjoy the spectacle that happens only once every four years. This tournament will last 39 days. The legislation we’re proposing provides a rare opportunity for businesses in every part of New York to host watch parties onsite, as well as conduct business outside of normal business hours.”
The State Liquor Authority already offers a World Cup One-Day Permit to permit the sale of alcoholic beverages at off-site fan events, public watch parties and other happenings during the tournament.
