States Extend World Cup Last Call to July 19 for Late-Night Alcohol Sales
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 9
States Extend World Cup Last Call to July 19 for Late-Night Alcohol Sales
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jun 9
Summary
States across the country are making one-time changes to alcohol rules during the 2026 World Cup, pushing back last call so bars and restaurants can keep serving later.
July 19 marks the tournament final, and the late-night schedule has created an opening for venues to capture extra demand from fans watching matches deep into the night.
Massachusetts — despite its relatively strict reputation on alcohol rules — is among the states giving soccer fans more time to drink during the event.
The temporary extensions show how regulators are bending normal closing-hour rules for a global tournament expected to drive unusually late nightlife business.