Calgary’s bars and restaurants have been given the go-ahead by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission to start serving alcohol as early as 8:00 am during the Stampede.
Bars, restaurants and lounges in the city will have the option of the early liquor service as part of their regular operations during the 10 days of Stampede and can start service at 7:00 am on parade day, July 4.
“As part of the continuous improvements to our policies, we’re taking this opportunity to pilot more flexible liquor service hours. This will allow us to get a better sense of both the industry’s as well as the wider community’s appetite for potential changes to liquor laws we plan to look at further down the road,” said Bill Robinson, President and Chief Executive Officer.
The AGLC says extended hours for corporate events in the past have proved successful, which was the basis for its decision to allow all Class A, B, and C licensees to participate.
“Restaurants Canada and our Alberta members are pleased to see that the AGLC is taking the steps in the right direction when it comes to liquor laws. It absolutely makes sense to give these extended service hours a try during a big event like the Stampede so that all of us know what works and what doesn’t when we’re looking at expanding business opportunities for bars and restaurants.” Said Mark von Schellwitz, Vice President Western Canada, Restaurants Canada .
The AGLC says those establishments that want to open early do not have to apply for an extension but those holding special events still need to apply for a liquor licence.
