Happy Hour Advertising Changes Effective July 1, 2019
"Happy hour" is
defined as a specified period of time during which alcoholic beverages are sold at prices reduced from the customary price established by a retail licensee.
Effective July 1, 2019, legislation will allow licensed establishments to do the following to advertise their happy hours:
- Include prices.
- Use creative terms such as "Wine Down Wednesday" or "Thirsty Thursday."
- Promote the time span of their happy hour.
- List specific drink types and brands.
- Promote drink specials in advertisements and on flyers, posters, social media and their website (subject to other alcohol advertising laws and regulations)
The following restrictions will remain in place:
- Happy hour may not be offered between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m.
- Happy hour specials may not promote over-consumption or underage drinking. Advertising two-for-one and "bottomless" drink specials are illegal.
Be certain all employees know the rules regarding happy hour and adhere to the 9 p.m. deadline for selling drinks at a reduced price. The licensee could incur violations if staff let a customer "slide in a little late." It’s important for licensees to maintain a regular, proactive relationship with their special agent. If you have specific questions about conducting happy hour, please contact your special agent.
Revised June 20, 2019