NY Bars Can Stay Open Until 4 AM for World Cup—Some Local Spots Already Do

NY Prepares for FIFA World Cup

I don't know about you, but these days making it past 9:30 p.m. feels like an accomplishment. Staying out until 4 in the morning?  That's a young person's game!

Still, New York is preparing for the biggest sporting event on the planet.

Photo: Getty Images

Hochul Extends Bar Hours Throughout NY

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation allowing bars across the state to stay open until 4 in the morning from June 11th through July 20th during the FIFA World Cup.

The tournament will feature matches throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with several games, including the championship match on July 19th, being played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Photo: Getty Images

"From the first kick to the last whistle, bars and restaurants across our state can stay open throughout the tournament, bringing New Yorkers together to cheer on every goal and supporting small businesses across the state." - Gov. Kathy Hochul

Big Deal for Much of New York

According to the State Liquor Authority, 38 of the state's 62 counties currently require bars to close earlier than 4 AM. The temporary law overrides those local restrictions for the duration of the tournament.
Read More: Schenectady's Central Park Stadium: Once Home To Tennis Legends 

Here's the interesting part for Capital Region sports fans: Albany County already allows bars to stay open until 4, making it one of the few places in the state where late-night soccer viewing isn't anything new.

State officials expect more than one million visitors to come through New York during the World Cup, and local businesses are hoping to cash in on the excitement. Whether you're watching soccer—or maybe even a Knicks Finals game that runs late—New York wants fans cheering long after midnight.