New York Governor Proposes Extended Bar Hours and Permits for 2026 World Cup Events
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has announced a plan to support small businesses and communities in hosting watch parties and fan events during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The New York State Liquor Authority will introduce a World Cup One-Day Permit, allowing businesses and event organizers to serve alcohol at off-site events such as fan festivals and public watch parties. This permit will also enable bars and restaurants to expand their service into adjacent outdoor spaces for the duration of the tournament, beyond the current four-day limit. Additionally, Hochul is advocating for state lawmakers to temporarily extend operating hours for bars and restaurants to 4 a.m. during the World Cup, creating a uniform statewide policy that would override more restrictive local rules. The application process for these permits will be streamlined, allowing organizers to request up to 12 permits per application, with the possibility of submitting multiple applications for additional events. 
