When it comes to purchasing alcoholic beverages in the Lone Star State, it’s essential to be aware of the specific regulations and hours of operation for liquor stores. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking to enjoy a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer, understanding “What Time Do Liquor Stores Close in Texas” is crucial for planning your evening and ensuring you can pick up your favorite spirits within the legal limits.
In this article, we’ll delve into the closing times of liquor stores in Texas, shedding light on the state’s alcohol sales regulations and helping you navigate the vibrant nightlife scene that Texas has to offer.
What time do liquor stores close in Texas on weekdays?
Liquor store hours in Texas can vary depending on several factors, including the type of store and local regulations. In Texas, there are two main categories of liquor stores: package stores and wine and beer retailers. The hours of operation for these stores are governed by state law and local ordinances.
- Package Stores (Liquor Stores):
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- In Texas, package stores primarily sell distilled spirits (liquor) and sometimes wine.
- State law dictates that package stores must close by 9:00 PM from Monday through Saturday.
- They are required to be closed on Sundays and on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
- Wine and Beer Retailers:
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- Wine and beer retailers primarily sell wine and beer, including supermarkets and convenience stores.
- State law allows wine and beer retailers to sell alcoholic beverages between 7:00 AM and midnight from Monday through Friday.
- On Saturdays, they can sell from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and on Sundays, they can start selling at noon and continue until midnight.
It’s important to note that local municipalities in Texas can have their own regulations regarding alcohol sales, including variations in closing times. Some areas may have “dry” laws that prohibit alcohol sales altogether, while others may allow for extended hours or additional days of operation.
Additionally, there are exceptions for holidays and special events, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local liquor store or the local government to confirm the specific hours of operation in your area, especially if you plan to make a purchase near closing time or on a holiday.
Keep in mind that these regulations may change over time, so it’s a good idea to verify the current hours of operation for liquor stores in your specific location by consulting local authorities or the liquor store itself.
Are liquor store closing times different on weekends in Texas?
Yes, liquor store closing times are different on weekends in Texas. In Texas, liquor stores are typically open for shorter hours on Sundays compared to weekdays and Saturdays. Here are the general closing times for liquor stores in Texas:
- Weekdays (Monday through Saturday):
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- Liquor stores (package stores) must close by 9:00 PM from Monday through Saturday.
- Saturdays:
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- Liquor stores (package stores) close by 9:00 PM, just like weekdays.
- Sundays:
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- Liquor stores (package stores) are required to be closed on Sundays.
So, on weekdays and Saturdays, liquor stores in Texas close at 9:00 PM, but they are not allowed to operate at all on Sundays.
These regulations can vary slightly depending on local ordinances and holiday exceptions, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific liquor store or local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their operating hours.
Do liquor stores close earlier on holidays in Texas?
In Texas, liquor store closing times on holidays can vary depending on local regulations and the specific holiday in question. While state law provides certain guidelines for liquor store operating hours, some local ordinances may permit different hours of operation on holidays or restrict sales altogether on certain holidays.
Here are some general points to consider:
- State law does not mandate specific early closing times for liquor stores on holidays. However, it does specify that liquor stores must close by 9:00 PM on regular weekdays and Saturdays.
- Some local jurisdictions in Texas may have their own rules regarding alcohol sales on holidays. This can include allowing stores to stay open later or imposing additional restrictions, such as closing early on specific holidays.
- Certain holidays, like Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, are commonly associated with early store closures or even complete closures of liquor stores in many areas due to local ordinances or out of respect for the holiday.
- Local liquor stores may choose to adjust their hours on holidays based on customer demand and local regulations, so it’s advisable to check with the specific store you plan to visit or consult your local government or liquor control board for information on holiday hours.
Are there any exceptions to liquor store closing times in Texas?
In Texas, liquor stores are typically subject to the following regulations regarding closing times:
- Monday through Saturday: Liquor stores in Texas are generally allowed to operate between the hours of 10:00 AM and 9:00 PM, Monday through Saturday.
- Sunday: Liquor stores were traditionally closed on Sundays in Texas. However, there have been some changes to this law. As of my last update, some areas of Texas permit liquor stores to be open on Sundays, while others do not. The specific hours and rules can vary by location.
- Holidays: Texas law also restricts the sale of alcoholic beverages on certain holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. Liquor stores are typically closed on these holidays.
- Local Variations: Some local municipalities may have their own additional regulations regarding liquor store hours. This means that specific closing times can vary from one city or county to another. Some areas may have “wet” and “dry” precincts, which can affect liquor store operations.
It’s essential to check the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) website or contact local authorities for the most accurate and current information regarding liquor store closing times and any exceptions in your specific area of Texas.
Do liquor stores in Texas close earlier during COVID-19 restrictions?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some states and municipalities implemented temporary restrictions and regulations affecting businesses, including liquor stores. These restrictions often included reduced operating hours or temporary closures to help curb the spread of the virus.
The specific regulations and their duration varied by location and evolved over time as the situation changed. Therefore, whether liquor stores in Texas closed earlier or had modified operating hours during COVID-19 restrictions depended on the specific orders and guidelines issued by state and local authorities.
To get accurate and up-to-date information on any COVID-19-related restrictions affecting liquor stores in Texas, including their operating hours, I recommend checking the official website of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) or contacting local authorities in the area of interest. These sources should provide the most current information regarding any pandemic-related regulations impacting liquor stores in Texas.
Conclusion
This page gives insight on what time do liquor stores close in Texas. Liquor store closing times in Texas generally adhere to the hours of 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM from Monday through Saturday.
However, specific hours may vary by location, and certain exceptions may apply, especially regarding Sunday sales and holidays. It’s crucial to check with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) or local authorities for precise and up-to-date information on liquor store closing times in your area, as regulations can change over time and can be subject to local variations.