Philly bars could stay open until 4am during World Cup
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Philly bars are getting the green light to keep the alcohol flowing until 4am during the FIFA World Cup and other big events this summer.
Why it matters: Extending last call will help businesses cash in on the flood of tourists expected in the coming months.
State of play: Businesses like bars, restaurants, hotels, breweries and distilleries can apply for a new temporary permit to stay open and serve alcohol for two extra hours per day between June 11 and July 20.
- State lawmakers recently approved legislation and Gov. Josh Shapiro signed the bill on Friday.
'Burbs bummer: The legislation only applies to Philly proper, so bars in the collar counties will miss out.
The big picture: The World Cup kicks off June 11 and runs through July 19, with Philly hosting six matches.
- The extended alcohol sales would also happen during Wawa Welcome America Festival (June 19–July 4), MLB All-Star Week at Citizens Bank Park (July 11–14), and events around America's 250th birthday.
How it works: Eligible businesses must apply for a permit ($500) and complete specialized training for night safety for customers and employees, per the legislation.
- Businesses are ineligible if they have suspended licenses or pending suspensions, or if the city files a protest with the state Liquor Control Board, among other criteria.
Zoom in: Mayor Cherelle Parker and several restaurant industry groups, like the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association, have backed the effort.
- PRLA spokesperson Ben Fileccia tells Axios it could improve safety by reducing drinking in unlicensed spaces or outdoors.
- "The demand to drink, and celebrate with your friends and fellow countrymen is not going to end at 2am," he said.
- A Parker administration spokesperson didn't return Axios' request for comment.
The other side: Councilmember Curtis Jones has public safety concerns about the later closing time.
- "People don't make good decisions when they're drunk," he tells Axios. "I don't want us to be New York or New Orleans."
- He wants Philly police and the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections to ensure permitted bars close at 4am, and says businesses with unresolved liquor code violations shouldn't qualify.
Flashback: The last time Philly could serve alcohol past 2am was in 2016 for the Democratic National Convention.