Press Release  Governor Healey Signs Bill Allowing Bars to Stay Open until 3 AM for World Cup, Summer Events

Boston — Today, Governor Maura Healey signed An Act authorizing municipalities to opt-in to a temporary pilot to extend the hours of liquor licenses and to allow for public consumption in designated districts in summer 2026. The bill, which was sponsored by Representative Carole Fiola, Senator Barry Finegold, and Senator Julian Cyr, temporarily allows bars to serve alcohol until 3 A.M. and allows public consumption of alcohol in locally designated areas through July 31.  

“This bill will provide more opportunities for people to celebrate with their community for the World Cup and the other exciting events we have happening this summer for MA250,” said Governor Healey. "It will also support our local businesses and regional economies as they see a surge in visitors. We’re grateful to our partners in the Legislature for getting this bill across the finish line in time for the World Cup, as well as to the hardworking staff at our bars and restaurants for providing a welcoming and joyful environment for residents and visitors alike.” 

“As we welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors to Massachusetts this summer, we want to make sure that everyone has the chance to enjoy this once in a generation opportunity,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Allowing bars to stay open an hour later gives more people the chance to celebrate together and supports local businesses.” 

“With the World Cup and 250th anniversary celebrations slated to take place in Massachusetts this summer, this pilot program won’t just allow us to better understand the one hour last call extension, it will also ensure that businesses are able to take advantage of the influx of visitors – creating a better experience for everyone,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I want to thank Governor Healey for signing this bill into law, as well as my colleagues in the House and our partners in the Senate for recognizing that this summer is the right moment for this legislation.” 

"This summer, the world is coming to Massachusetts — from the World Cup, to the Tall Ships, to America's 250th birthday," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "Modernizing our state's alcohol laws will be a boon for our businesses, and this pilot gives us a real opportunity to see how that flexibility can benefit communities across the Commonwealth. I applaud Senators Finegold and Cyr for their work, and am grateful to Governor Healey and our colleagues in the House for their partnership in getting this signed into law." 

“Extending serving hours this legislation will help enhance the exciting summer activities that will be occurring all across the Commonwealth. By making these changes it will create a fun atmosphere for residents and tourists alike and will enhance the economy for all our residents,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “I want to thank Speaker Mariano, Chair Fiola, and all my House colleagues for their support of this critical initiative.” 

“We are all on the same team for this one: Massachusetts is giving cities and towns the chance to keep the party going,” said Senator Barry Finegold (D-Andover), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “Goallll!” 

“This legislation can help create vibrant, welcoming destinations while generating economic activity for restaurants, bars, retailers, and tourism-related businesses who choose to participate. Summer 2026 presents a unique opportunity for Massachusetts,” said Representative Carole A. Fiola (D-Fall River), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “With international visitors expected throughout the region for FIFA World Cup events and celebrations surrounding America’s 250th anniversary, and the return of Tall Ships to the Boston Harbor, communities across the Commonwealth will have an opportunity to showcase their downtowns, waterfronts, cultural districts, restaurants, and small businesses. This bill could help capture economic opportunity for Massachusetts while celebrating this historic tournament that only happens every four years around the world.” 

“I’ve said for years that Massachusetts has a ‘fun’ problem, so I am delighted to see Governor Healey sign legislation to bring some much-needed conviviality to our summer,” said Senator Julian Cyr (D-Provincetown). “With scores of visitors set to descend on the Commonwealth, this simple change sends the clear message that we’re ready to make the most out of an unforgettable summer. Let’s show the world that we truly do know how to have a good time in Massachusetts. Cheers!”  

“With many exciting tourism activities ahead this summer, local leaders appreciate the Legislature’s swift action on, and the governor’s support for, legislation that will support local economies and bustling downtowns by temporarily changing rules for the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages, This important local-option supports our local businesses, communities, and their residents,” said Executive Director and CEO of the Massachusetts Municipal Association Adam Chapdelaine. 

Through Match Ready Massachusetts, the Healey-Driscoll Administration is coordinating planning efforts across agencies and with local, federal and private-sector partners to deliver a safe, successful and memorable World Cup. In addition to the seven World Cup matches that Massachusetts is hosting, there will also be dozens of events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American revolution through Massachusetts 250, including the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular and Sail Boston. Together, millions of viewers and hundreds of thousands of visitors will create a historic opportunity to showcase Massachusetts on the global stage. 

Tourism remains a major driver of the Massachusetts economy. The state welcomed more than 52 million visitors in 2024 who spent over $24 billion statewide, supporting more than 155,000 jobs and generating more than $2 billion in state and local tax revenue.  

###