Governor Hochul Signs Legislation Extending Hours for Bars and Restaurants During 2026 FIFA World Cup

A.11564/S.9990A Allows Bars and Restaurants To Operate Until 4 a.m. From June 11 Through July 20, 2026

Builds on Governor’s World Cup One-Day Permit Allowing Event Organizers To Host Off-Site Activations and Expanded Outdoor Activations

Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation A.11564/S.9990A which temporarily extends permissible hours for bars and restaurants during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new law allows on-premises licensees to sell alcoholic beverages until 4 a.m. from June 11, 2026 through July 20, 2026. This change will help bars, restaurants and other on-premises establishments meet increased demand during one of the world’s largest sporting events, while maintaining an orderly and time-limited framework for alcohol service. The new law builds on the Governor’s World Cup One-Day Permit through the State Liquor Authority allowing event organizers to host off-site activations and expanded outdoor activations.

“The World Cup is coming to New York and I want every New Yorker and local business to be part of the action and celebration, no ticket required,” Governor Hochul said. “From the first kick to the last whistle, bars and restaurants across our state can stay open throughout the tournament, bringing New Yorkers together to cheer on every goal and supporting small businesses across the state.”

Key provisions of the new law include:

• From June 11, 2026 through July 20, 2026, on-premises consumption licensees may sell or offer for sale alcoholic beverages until 4 a.m., notwithstanding more restrictive county-adopted hours.
• The temporary change does not apply where the State Liquor Authority has imposed more restrictive hours as a condition of a license.
  The law takes effect immediately and expires and is deemed repealed on July 21, 2026.

The legislation builds on Governor Hochul’s broader efforts to help local businesses, municipalities and communities prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Earlier this year, the Governor announced the State Liquor Authority’s World Cup One-Day Permit to support off-site fan events, public watch parties and expanded outdoor activations during the tournament.

Together, these efforts are intended to help New York’s hospitality industry, local communities and visitors safely enjoy World Cup festivities across the state.