Winter Olympics Update: Extended Liquor Service Hours
We wanted to share an update following our discussions with AGLC regarding extended liquor service hours during the Winter Olympics. While the final approach is more limited than we initially proposed, our advocacy did result in added flexibility for Team Canada hockey games — likely the most watched and highest-demand sport of the Winter Games.
Below is a clear, practical summary of what members need to know and how to plan.
How Extended Liquor Service Works During the Winter Olympics
There are two situations, and they work slightly differently.
All games listed below require a request to AGLC.
1) Medal-Round Olympic Events (Any Sport)
No need to wait for a response from AGLC
Email your request before starting extended liquor service
You may include multiple medal-round events in one email
When possible, submit requests at least 72 hours in advance
Once the request is sent, you may serve liquor during the extended hours
2) Non-Medal Team Canada Hockey Games
You must hear back from AGLC before starting extended liquor service
Email your request and wait for confirmation
You may include multiple games in one email
When possible, submit requests at least 72 hours in advance
Where to Send Requests & What to Include
Send all requests and notifications to: inspections.mailbox@aglc.ca
To avoid delays, please include the following in your email:
Full operating name
Liquor licence number
Dates and specific games/sports you are requesting extended liquor service for
(multiple events may be included in one email)
Rules That Apply to ALL Extended Hours
These rules apply to both medal and non-medal events:
The event must be an Olympic event
Establishments cannot operate 24 hours
The establishment must be closed for at least one hour before and one hour after the extended liquor service period
A food menu appropriate to your licence type must be available during extended hours
All responsible service requirements and liquor laws continue to apply
Games Requiring a Request
(Start Before 9:00 a.m. Mountain Time)
The following Olympic hockey games start before standard liquor service hours and require a request to AGLC.
February 12 – Canada Men’s Hockey | 8:40 a.m.
February 13 – Women’s Quarterfinals | 8:40 a.m.
February 14 – Women’s Quarterfinals | 8:40 a.m.
February 15 – Canada Men’s Hockey | 8:40 a.m.
February 16 – Women’s Semifinals | 8:40 a.m.
February 17 – Men’s Qualification for Quarterfinals | 4:10 a.m. and 8:40 a.m.
February 18 – Men’s Quarterfinals | 4:10 a.m. and 8:40 a.m.
February 19 – Women’s Bronze Medal Game | 6:40 a.m.
February 20 – Men’s Semifinals | 8:40 a.m.
February 22 – Men’s Gold Medal Game | 6:10 a.m.
Quick Reminders
All games listed above require a request to AGLC
Some games require you to wait to hear back before serving
Multiple games can be included in one request
When possible, submit requests at least 72 hours in advance
We’ll continue working with AGLC to advocate for clear, workable approaches for members and will share updates if anything changes.