NYC may allow outdoor drinking during the 2026 World Cup

"A new bill introduced in the New York State Assembly would allow cities and towns across the state to temporarily create "entertainment zones" where people could legally drink alcohol outdoors during this summer's upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. If approved, it could mean watching matches with a beer in hand while standing on a closed-off street in places like or Hell's Kitchen."

"The legislation would let local governments apply to the State Liquor Authority for permission to establish designated areas where licensed bars and restaurants could serve alcohol that patrons can take outside and enjoy within a defined zone."

"With roughly 1.2 million visitors expected to travel to the tri-state area during the tournament, Simone argues the city should be ready to handle the crowds-and help local businesses benefit from the influx. "We want to make sure that small businesses are in the starting lineup," Simone told NBC 4 New York."

The HOST Act (Hospitality and Open Space Transformation Act), introduced by Manhattan Assemblymember Tony Simone, would permit New York cities and towns to create temporary entertainment zones where licensed bars and restaurants can serve alcohol for outdoor consumption during the 2026 World Cup. The tournament runs June 11 through July 19 and will feature 48 teams across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with eight matches including the final at MetLife Stadium in the New York area. The proposal aims to support small businesses and manage approximately 1.2 million expected visitors. Only existing liquor license holders could participate, with all current regulations and enforcement remaining in effect. Cities could temporarily extend bar hours to accommodate match schedules.

Read at Time Out New York