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Texas Liquor Laws: Two-Day Holiday Closure Explained

December 31, 2023

Have you been planning a dash to the liquor store prior to the New Year’s celebrations? If so, you might have been taken aback when you found out that you’ve already missed your window of opportunity. This is due to a unique Texas regulation that mandates the closure of liquor stores on specific days — Sundays and certain holidays, to be precise.

According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), liquor stores across the state of Texas shut their doors on Sundays and holidays, including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Given the fact that New Year’s Day this year falls on a Monday, this translates into a consecutive two-day closure of all liquor stores.

The Texas laws further dictate that liquor stores can only conduct business between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. So, for those keen on the exact math, this signifies a lengthy 61-hour period where Texans must forego access to their liquor stores. The countdown started at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 30, and resets when stores re-open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 2.

Remarkably, this is not a one-off instance but the second consecutive year that Texas liquor stores will remain off-limits for 61 hours during the New Year’s holiday. The same scenario played out last year when New Year’s Day was on a Sunday. The law stipulates that if a holiday like Christmas or New Year’s Day lands on a Sunday, the liquor stores must remain closed on the ensuing Monday as well.

However, these rules specifically apply to liquor stores. The legal hours for serving alcohol or selling beer and wine vary and are detailed on the TABC website for anyone looking for more comprehensive information.

Remember, as you get ready to ring in the New Year, if you plan on indulging in a drink or two, it’s crucial to organize a safe ride home before you start the festivities. Stay safe, drink responsibly, and enjoy your New Year celebrations!

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