New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday a new law for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This regulation allows bars and restaurants throughout the state to remain open until 4:00 a.m. The temporary change aims to facilitate sports celebrations for thousands of fans.
The new provision applies to establishments licensed for on-premises consumption. It will permit the sale of alcoholic beverages until that hour from June 11 through July 20 of 2026. This period covers nearly the entire tournament, including the final match.
“From the opening whistle to the end of the tournament, bars and restaurants throughout the state will be able to stay open,” Hochul stated in an official statement. The measure seeks to bring New Yorkers together to celebrate every goal and support small businesses.
What economic benefits will the extended hours provide?
The governor said her goal is for all New Yorkers and local businesses to be part of the action. Without needing a stadium ticket, people will be able to enjoy the tournament in their neighborhoods. This democratizes access to celebrating the sporting event.
The extended hours will directly benefit small businesses throughout the region. Establishments will be able to generate more revenue during match nights. The increase in sales will help offset operating costs and salaries.
The tournament’s opening match will feature Mexico and South Africa. This game will be played Thursday at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Although not in New York, the celebration will be felt in local bars.
Meanwhile, the first soccer match in New Jersey will be on June 13. This will make New York the base of operations for thousands of international fans. The metropolitan region will prepare to receive visitors from around the world.
The New York/New Jersey venue will host eight World Cup matches at MetLife Stadium. These include Brazil-Morocco, June 13, and France-Senegal, June 16. There will also be matches featuring Norway-Senegal, Ecuador-Germany, and Panama-England.
When does the extended hours period begin and end?
The new regulation allows alcoholic beverage sales until 4:00 a.m. beginning June 11. This start date coincides with the official beginning of World Cup celebrations in the region. Bars will be able to open their doors before major matches.
The extension period will end on July 20, 2026, right after the final. The tournament final will be on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. The law guarantees that
Nueva York extiende horario de bares durante el Mundial
Nueva York extiende horario de bares hasta 4:00 a.m. durante el Mundial 2026; la ley...
Central Park albergará a 50,000 personas para ver la final del Mundial 2026
Nueva York inaugura la fiesta más grande del Mundial 2026: 50 000 personas verán la...
