Several U.S. jurisdictions are extending bar and restaurant operating hours to accommodate fans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1].
These legislative shifts aim to boost local businesses by allowing them to capitalize on the increased demand from international and domestic visitors attending the world's most-watched sporting event [1].
In Missouri, the Kansas City Council has addressed the surge in tourism by adjusting local ordinances. Depending on the specific regulation, bars in the city may stay open until five a.m. [4] or operate 23 hours a day, seven days a week [2]. These extended liquor-sale hours are slated for the duration of the tournament, running from June 11 through July 19, 2026 [3].
Similar efforts are underway in the Northeast. Rhode Island officials have moved to provide alcohol flexibility for soccer fans. While some reports indicated lawmakers were considering the measure [2], the Rhode Island Senate has approved legislation to allow bars and restaurants to stay open later throughout the tournament [5].
Pennsylvania state officials are also implementing measures to extend hours for hospitality businesses [1]. These changes are designed to ensure that venues can serve fans watching matches that often occur in time zones that differ significantly from the U.S. Eastern and Central zones.
Local governments are balancing the economic potential of the event with public safety and zoning laws. By extending the hours, officials hope to keep crowds in managed commercial environments rather than in unregulated public spaces during late-night match broadcasts.
“Bars in Kansas City may stay open 23 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The decision to suspend standard closing times reflects the unique logistical challenges of hosting a global event like the FIFA World Cup. Because soccer matches are played across various global time zones, traditional U.S. liquor laws would otherwise prevent businesses from serving fans during prime viewing hours, potentially leading to significant lost revenue and unmanaged crowds.
