Take A Shot: States With Unusual Liquor Laws

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Take A Shot: States With Unusual Liquor Laws

30 April 2016
 Categories: , Blog


For those who enjoy a nice, stiff drink every now and again, buying or drinking liquor may not be as cut and dry as you might think. Every state in America has its own individual laws regarding the sale and consumption of liquor, and some of the laws are rather quirky. While states like California allow liquor to be sold in most major retail stores and grocery stores, other states are not as lax. Here are a few states with truly unique liquor laws that may just surprise you.

Utah

With the largest population of Mormons in the country, it's not surprising that Utah has some rather strict and unusual liquor laws. If you want to order a drink, you must also order food with it. Liquor cannot be consumed on its own without food in restaurants. Bartenders must make your drink behind a hidden area out of sight, but this only applies to restaurants that have opened their doors after July of 2012. Ordering a double is also not permitted. 

Virginia

In the state of Virginia, liquor can only be purchased from designated ABC stores. ABC is short for Alcoholic Beverage Control, and customers are only able to purchase liquor from these locations. It is not sold in grocery stores or retail venues. For decades, ABC stores were closed on Sundays. This law is reminiscent of other laws regarding Sunday sales known as "Blue Laws." But recently, Virginia allowed liquor stores to open their doors on Sunday, breaking a long streak of prohibiting sales on this day.

Colorado

Of course, driving under the influence is illegal in every state, but in Colorado you can be ticketed, fined, or even jailed for riding a horse while drunk. Horses are a fairly common sight in this mountainous state, and the law does not allow for riding atop a trusty steed while inebriated. This is considered a serious traffic infraction in Colorado, so if you plan to ride a horse there, make sure you do it sober.

Massachusetts

Perhaps you and some friends want to head to the bar after work for a happy hour discount. If you live in Massachusetts, you'll be sorely disappointed. The liquor law in this state does now allow for discounted sales of alcohol unless it is being served at a private event. This means you'll pay full price for drinks no matter what time of the day you're out and about.

Contact a company like Universal Discount Package Store for more info.