World Cup enthusiasts in numerous US cities are set to enjoy extended bar and restaurant hours as state leaders approve measures aimed at enhancing the fan experience and bolstering local businesses. Kansas, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington have all sanctioned provisions to extend alcohol sales during the tournament, with similar proposals under consideration in New York and Massachusetts.
Closing times could be pushed back to 4 am in Philadelphia during the World Cup and America 250 celebrations, while some Kansas City establishments may operate until 5 am. The hospitality industry, grappling with declining sales and inflation, largely welcomes the opportunity. Mark Prinzinger, owner of Lion Sports Bar in Philadelphia, described the atmosphere as a 'magical experience' and has hired additional staff, streamlined menus, and planned late-night programming.
Despite bipartisan support, concerns regarding public safety and strain on law enforcement have been raised. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas initially remarked that his city 'doesn't need bars operating 23 hours' during the World Cup. However, bar owners assert that most businesses prioritise training staff to prevent patrons from being overserved. Prinzinger countered that people want to watch the game and be engaged, not necessarily get drunk.
Rhode Island Representative Teresa Tanzi echoed this sentiment, stating that families will want cheeseburgers and Coca-Cola, not just alcohol. Rhode Island is deliberating extending alcohol sales to 3 am and closing times to 4 am, a significant departure from its current 1 am last call. Mayor Lucas eventually softened his stance, submitting a plan allowing Kansas City restaurants and bars to remain open until 3 am, and certain establishments until 5 am, provided they submit a security plan.
The trend of extended hours is not exclusive to the US. Pubs in England and Wales will be able to stay open until 2 am if the English or Scottish teams advance to the knockout stages. In Scotland, local authorities can allow pubs to remain open for 30 minutes after matches conclude. Despite enthusiasm, actual demand for late-night food and drink remains speculative, as the World Cup schedule primarily features games from early afternoon through early evening.
