Alcohol sale and service extended to 4 a.m. to support local businesses, hospitality workers and fans during global tournament
The Ontario government is supporting tourism and local businesses by allowing licensed restaurants and bars to extend the sale and service of alcohol across the province until 4 a.m. during FIFA World Cup 2026™. The temporary extension will apply from June 11, 2026 to July 19, 2026.
“This summer, fans visiting from around the world will gather in Toronto to celebrate world-class sport,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “Allowing restaurants and bars to stay open later means that fans can fully experience the energy, excitement and atmosphere of the tournament while supporting jobs, strengthening local businesses and driving economic growth across Ontario.”
This year’s tournament is the first to feature 48 teams playing games across three countries, including Canada. In Ontario, Toronto will host six games at Toronto Stadium. Vancouver will also host games, alongside 14 additional host cities in the United States and Mexico, making this the largest FIFA World Cup 2026™ in history.
“Extending last call during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ will help Ontario deliver a safe, vibrant and welcoming experience for fans from around the world,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As Ontario welcomes visitors for this global event, this measure will give people more time to enjoy our world-class bars and restaurants while supporting the province’s tourism sector.”
The Ontario government is working in partnership with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario to enable the temporary extension of hours for establishments that are licensed to sell alcohol, such as bars and restaurants, for the duration of the tournament.
Quick Facts
- The last call for alcohol service in Ontario is typically 2 a.m.
- This temporary extension builds on Ontario’s experience during other major international sporting events, including when the province temporarily extended alcohol service hours to support fans during the recent 2026 Olympic gold medal hockey game between Canada and the United States.
- The LCBO is extending store hours in 27 select retail stores across the GTA and Ottawa between June 11, 2026 and July 19, 2026. Extended hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Last summer, the province made an amendment to the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 framework to allow alcohol sale and consumption on pedal pubs.
Quotes
“As excitement continues to build for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Ontario is ready to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans and visitors alike. Our government is proud to be part of this once-in-a-generation opportunity and extending hours for restaurants and bars in communities across the province will support local businesses, generate economic benefits and showcase why Ontario is where the world comes to compete.”
– Neil Lumsden
Minister of Sport
“Across Toronto, residents and visitors will experience a city ready to welcome the world. The Ontario government’s decision helps local bars, restaurants and businesses benefit from the excitement of FIFA World Cup 26™, while showcasing the world-class hospitality that defines Toronto.”
– Olivia Chow
Mayor of Toronto
“TIAO welcomes this temporary measure as a practical step to help Ontario’s tourism and hospitality businesses make the most of the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™. Major global events create unique opportunities for destinations to showcase their hospitality, and extending service hours for participating licensed establishments gives operators additional flexibility to create memorable guest experiences, support incremental business activity and generate added income opportunities for workers. For visitors celebrating matches across Ontario, this helps enhance the overall event atmosphere and reinforces Ontario’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming host destination.”
– Andrew Siegwart
President & CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)
“ORHMA welcomes the province’s decision to extend alcohol service hours during FIFA World Cup 2026™ events. This temporary change will help hospitality businesses accommodate increased visitor demand and support the tourism activity generated by a major international event. We appreciate the government’s recognition of the role Ontario’s hospitality industry plays in delivering a positive visitor experience during globally significant events such as this.”
– Tony Elenis
President & CEO, Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA)
“The Greater Toronto Hotel Association is pleased with the Ontario government’s initiative to extend hours of alcohol service for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ taking place in Toronto. This tournament will deliver a significant economic boost for the region’s hospitality and hotel sectors, and extended service hours will enable fans to enjoy the festivities even more.”
– Sara Anghel
President & CEO, Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA)
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
