Soccer fans around New York state will have the opportunity to keep the party going well into the night during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, thanks to newly signed legislation from Governor Kathy Hochul that temporarily extends alcohol service hours for restaurants and bars.
World Cup fever is hitting hard in New York, with a slew of events, fan activations, concerts, watch parties, special offers and more on tap, especially in New York City. There’s plenty going on around the state as well, but while NYC bars and restaurants can serve alcohol until 4am, fans in other counties were at risk of being kicked to the curb before the worldwide celebrations end—until now.
The new legislation, signed on June 9, allows bars, restaurants, taverns and other on-premises licensed establishments to serve alcoholic beverages until 4am from June 11 through July 20, 2026. Businesses are expecting an influx of soccer fans from around the world, and the new law is designed to help these businesses roll out the red carpet. The temporary measure overrides local restrictions on serving alcohol for the duration of the tournament, so fans can celebrate with consistency wherever they are.
Governor Hochul said the change will ensure that all New Yorkers can participate in the excitement surrounding the World Cup, one of the world’s biggest sporting events, whether they attend matches in person or gather at local venues to watch games. It’s a win all around, helping to bring communities together while also supporting small businesses and local economies.
State officials expect the tournament to be an economic boon, with an estimated 1.2 million visitors projected to travel to the region. Supporters of the legislation say the extended hours will allow businesses to maximize revenue opportunities while providing fans with more places to gather and celebrate.
The new law builds on previous efforts by the state to prepare for the World Cup. Earlier this year, the State Liquor Authority introduced a streamlined one-day permit process that allows bars, restaurants and event organizers to host outdoor watch parties and off-site fan events more easily, giving fans more ways to get in on the action.
The legislation takes effect immediately and will automatically expire on July 21, 2026. So get out there, find a watch party and be a part of a worldwide celebration like no other.
