Can You Really Be Banned from Drinking Alcohol in New York on Christmas?

Posted by Jan McDonald December 23, 2024

Is it a fact or fiction that you are banned from drinking alcohol on Christmas in New York State? We all know that New York State has a law or tax on everything.

If you’re planning to gather your old high school friends and go out for a drink during the holidays, you might encounter a hurdle. It turns out that some states actually prohibit the sale of alcohol on Christmas Day. So, if you’re in New York, you’re probably wondering if this ban applies there as well.

Does New York Ban Alcohol On Christmas?

Here is a list of at least 24 states that ban liquor sales on Christmas Day.

Arkansas: State law prohibits the sale of intoxicating liquors on Christmas Day
Idaho: State-run liquor stores are closed on Christmas Day
Kansas: Most alcoholic beverages are not available for retail sale on Christmas Day
Massachusetts: All retail liquor sales are prohibited on Christmas Day
Minnesota: Alcohol sales are prohibited on Christmas Day, and after 8 PM on Christmas Eve, with some exceptions
Mississippi: Alcohol with 5% alcohol by volume or less is available for purchase on Christmas Day
New Hampshire: Liquor can only be purchased in state-run stores, which are closed on Christmas Day
New Mexico: Liquor sales are prohibited in stores, but alcohol is available in bars and restaurants
North Carolina: Liquor stores are closed on Christmas Day, but beer and wine are available in grocery stores
North Dakota: Liquor sales are prohibited after 6 PM on Christmas Eve and through Christmas Day
Ohio: State-run liquor stores are closed on Christmas Day
South Carolina: Liquor sales are prohibited on Christmas Day and on Sundays
Texas: The sale and serving of any liquor is prohibited on Christmas Day”

Did you notice that New York is not included in that list?

No, you are not banned from drinking alcohol on Christmas Day in New York State.

Liquor and wine stores have the option to open and sell alcohol for off-premises consumption on Christmas Day, in accordance with regular county closing hours. Additionally, they are permitted to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption during their regular operating hours. Further information can be found online.

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Jan McDonald
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Jan McDonald – Managing Partner Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jan McDonald relocated to the Demopolis area in 1991. Over the years, she has built an extensive career as a journalist and freelance writer, contributing her talents to various news outlets across Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Alabama. With her wealth of experience in journalism, Jan has honed her skills in reporting, writing, and storytelling, making her a versatile and respected voice in the field. As Managing Partner of The Watchman, Jan plays a crucial role in overseeing and producing editorial content for the publication. Her responsibilities include curating stories, ensuring high-quality journalism, and managing the day-to-day operations of the editorial team. Jan's dedication to maintaining the integrity of The Watchman's reporting, combined with her deep connection to the community, allows her to guide the publication with both passion and expertise.