DC businesses such as bars and restaurants are allowed to operate 24 hours a day during the World Cup, according to a new emergency bill that passed the DC Council on Thursday, September 22.
The World Cup Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2022Â was introduced by DC Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie and received unanimous approval from the council members.Â
“This event takes place every four years and is a Super-Bowl-type sporting event for soccer fans,” said the bill, noting the seven-hour time difference between the District and Qatar, which will host the World Cup this year from November 20 to December 18.
Thanks to the legislation, licensed establishments will be able to adjust their working hours according to the sporting event, and remain open for serving alcoholic beverages during these hours.Â
Alcoholic drinks can be sold until 4 am, but it will not be permitted between 4 am and 6 am.
Such businesses are required to register with the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
These places in DC currently close at 2 am on weekdays and at 3 am on weekends.
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser is expected to sign the regulation in the coming days.