Bars and pubs in B.C. and Alberta have permission to extend their hours during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this month — but in B.C., they can't serve alcohol during the extension.
The new B.C. late-night hours ruling will not have much effect on early matches for Canada’s first World Cup in 36 years: Canada’s first three games are televised at 11 a.m., 8 a.m. and 7 a.m. PST.
In Alberta, bars will be allowed to open as early as 5:30 a.m. from Nov. 21 to Nov. 18 MT, and from 7:30 a.m. from Nov. 29 to Dec. 10, but closing hours have not been extended.
There is no word yet on any rule changes in Saskatchewan or Manitoba, both of which eased licensing regulations during the 2018 world cup.
According to a statement released October 31, the B.C. hospitality sector is allowed to temporarily extend their operating hours during the sporting event.
Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, says there will be no change to the hours of liquor sales; only non-alcoholic drinks can be offered during the extended hours.
"This is the first time that Canada has qualified for the World Cup since 1986,” says Farnworth.
"In recognition of this, liquor primary establishments can extend their hours so soccer fans can support their team in a positive way with other fans, while also supporting the economic recovery of the hospitality sector coming out of the pandemic.”
The World Cup runs from Nov. 20 to Dec. 18. Due to a 10-hour time difference, games will be on during the early morning hours in B.C.
Liquor-primary establishments will be required to close their doors for one hour after the end of liquor service.
"Patrons will not be allowed to enter the establishment until this hour [at a minimum] has passed," the government says in a press release.
Restaurants who fall into this category don't need to notify the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch of their intention to extend operating hours.
Meanwhile, licensed restaurants are not required to close as they currently have the operational ability to stay open 24 hours; however, they'll still be required to follow the liquor-service rule.
Canada's first match is against Belgium on Nov. 23 at 11 a.m. PST.
