Buying Beer On Good Friday In Newfoundland: What's Allowed?

Newfoundland and Labrador is the only province in Eastern Canada where beer can be purchased at corner stores and gas stations. Beer is also available at government-owned liquor stores or directly from the few craft breweries operating in the province. Alcohol can only be sold and consumed during prescribed hours: 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with consumption permitted half an hour after the sale. The only dates that sales are suspended are provincial or federal election days.

Beer can be purchased from 9 am to 2 am Monday to Wednesday, and 9 am to 3 am Thursday to Sunday

In Newfoundland and Labrador, beer can be purchased from 9 am to 2 am on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and from 9 am to 3 am on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Consumption is permitted half an hour after the sale.

These hours apply to the sale of beer in hotels, motels, tourist homes, lounges, clubs, institutions, military messes, restaurants, brew restaurants, recreational facilities, restaurant/lounges, airport establishments, and transportation services.

Beer can be purchased at government-owned liquor stores, directly from craft breweries, and, uniquely in Eastern Canada, at some corner stores and gas stations.

The only days when beer sales are suspended are provincial or federal election days.

Beer is available at government-owned liquor stores, some corner stores, gas stations, and directly from craft breweries

Beer lovers in Newfoundland have a variety of options when it comes to purchasing their favourite beverage. The province offers a mix of government-owned liquor stores, private outlets, and convenient corner stores and gas stations that sell beer. Here is a more detailed look at each of these options:

Government-owned liquor stores

The Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation (NLC) is responsible for managing the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages in the province. They operate 24 Liquor Store locations and 5 Satellite Store locations, offering an extensive selection of beer, along with other alcoholic drinks. These stores are typically open daily, and the price of alcoholic beverages is set by the NLC and consistent across all retail channels.

Corner stores and gas stations

Newfoundland stands out as the only province in Eastern Canada where locally brewed beer is available at some corner stores and gas stations. This convenience is made possible by the province's longstanding rule, which allows domestic beer to be sold in these retail settings. While the selection may vary and space may be limited, it is a quick and easy option for those looking to grab a beer.

Craft breweries

In recent years, Newfoundland has seen a boom in craft breweries, offering unique and innovative beers. Beer enthusiasts can visit these craft breweries directly and purchase their products on-site. This option provides the opportunity to explore new flavours and support local businesses.

Other options

In addition to the options above, there are a few other ways to purchase beer in Newfoundland. Bars and restaurants often offer off-sale beer, allowing patrons to purchase beer to enjoy outside of the establishment. Additionally, some rural communities may be served by private outlets or liquor agencies that operate in conjunction with the government.

Overall, Newfoundland offers a diverse range of options for purchasing beer, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can enjoy their favourite brews. Whether it's a quick stop at a corner store or a visit to a local craft brewery, there's something to suit everyone's preferences and needs.

Alcohol cannot be purchased on election days

In Newfoundland, Canada, alcohol can be purchased from a variety of places, including government-owned liquor stores, breweries, bars, and restaurants. Notably, Newfoundland is the only province in Eastern Canada where locally brewed beer is available at some corner stores and gas stations. The hours of sale are from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with consumption permitted half an hour after the sale.

However, it is important to note that alcohol sales are prohibited on election days, both provincial and federal. This means that on the days when the province or the country is holding an election, no alcohol can be purchased in Newfoundland. This suspension of sales is in place to ensure that the election process is not disrupted and to promote a safe and orderly voting process.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation (NLC) is responsible for managing the importation, sale, and distribution of alcohol in the province. They have 24 Liquor Store locations and 5 Satellite Store locations, offering a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including spirits, wine, beer, and ready-to-drink (RTD) options. The NLC also supplies Liquor Express locations and licensees, which include bars, lounges, and restaurants.

While Newfoundland has a strong drinking culture, it is important to note that public drinking is prohibited. This means that consuming alcohol in public spaces, such as on the street, in parks, or on sidewalks, is not allowed. Additionally, alcohol can only be sold and consumed during the prescribed hours, as previously mentioned.

In summary, while Newfoundland offers a variety of options for purchasing alcohol, it is important to be mindful of the restrictions in place, especially on election days, when sales are suspended.

Alcohol can be delivered to your door in Newfoundland via Instacart

Newfoundland has a strong drinking culture, with a number of domestic beers exclusive to the province. These can be purchased in liquor stores, as well as corner shops and gas stations.

If you're looking to stock up on alcohol in Newfoundland, you can use Instacart to get beer, wine, and liquor delivered straight to your door. You can also use the service to pick up your order if you'd prefer.

To use Instacart, simply download the app or visit the website, and shop for your favourite alcoholic drinks. You can also add mixers, soda, and food to your order. Once you've placed your order, you'll be connected with a personal shopper in your area, who will pick up and deliver your items. You can track your order and communicate with your shopper via the app or website.

When your order arrives, you'll need to show a valid form of ID to verify your age. Instacart accepts US-issued driver's licenses, military IDs, state-issued identification cards, and passports (although not for Costco or Walmart orders).

Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35, and you can schedule a delivery time that suits you.

Alcohol must be consumed within half an hour of purchase

In Newfoundland and Labrador, alcohol can be purchased from 9 am to 2 am on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and from 9 am to 3 am on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Alcohol consumption is permitted half an hour after purchase. This means that if you buy alcohol at 2:30 pm on a Monday, you must finish consuming it by 3:00 pm. Similarly, if you purchase alcohol at 8:30 am on a Saturday, you have until 9:00 am to finish consuming it. It is important to note that these timings apply to both on-premise and off-premise consumption.

The half-hour consumption rule is a crucial aspect of the alcohol regulations in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is designed to allow individuals to consume their purchased alcohol without delay while also maintaining a level of control over alcohol consumption. This rule ensures that individuals do not stockpile alcohol and encourages responsible drinking by limiting the time frame for consumption.

This rule also applies to all types of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits. Whether you purchase a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer, you must finish consuming it within half an hour of the purchase time. It is important to plan your purchases accordingly and ensure that you do not exceed the permitted consumption timeframe.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited between 2 am and 9 am daily, and the only day that sales are suspended is during provincial or federal election days. These regulations are in place to maintain order and public safety, especially during important political events.

Newfoundland and Labrador have specific rules regarding alcohol consumption, and it is essential to abide by these rules to avoid any legal consequences. While you can enjoy your alcoholic beverages, it is crucial to be mindful of the time restrictions to ensure compliance with the local laws.

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