Whether you can buy beer on Thanksgiving depends on the state you live in. In Massachusetts, Thanksgiving falls under the state's Blue Laws, which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays. Therefore, all package stores in Massachusetts will be closed on Thanksgiving, according to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission's holiday calendar for 2023. However, some sources suggest that privately-owned retailers may be open in some counties, even in states where the sale of alcohol is prohibited on Thanksgiving.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Can you buy beer on Thanksgiving in MA? | No |
Can you buy alcohol on Thanksgiving in MA? | No |
Can you buy alcohol in bars and restaurants on Thanksgiving in MA? | Yes |
What You'll Learn
Beer can be purchased in some states, but not Massachusetts
Beer can be purchased in some states, but not in Massachusetts. While some states allow beer to be sold in supermarkets, Massachusetts has different rules.
Massachusetts' Blue Laws restrict the sale of alcohol on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction, meaning all package stores will be closed. Grocery stores also fall under these restrictions, so most grocery chains will be closed, too.
While some states have state-operated liquor stores, others are more lenient with alcohol sales. For example, in Louisiana, Oregon, and Pennsylvania, state-owned liquor stores may be open, but it's not guaranteed. In Alabama, beer and wine may be purchased, but spirits are not for sale.
So, if you're in Massachusetts and hoping to buy beer on Thanksgiving, you're out of luck. The state's Blue Laws mean that alcohol sales are restricted, and you'll need to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Alhambra Beer: Florida Availability and Where to Buy
You may want to see also
Bars and restaurants can still serve alcohol
While Massachusetts' "Blue Laws" restrict the sale of alcohol in grocery and package stores on Thanksgiving, bars and restaurants are still permitted to serve alcoholic beverages. This means that while you may be unable to purchase alcohol from a liquor store or supermarket, you can still enjoy a drink with your meal or at a bar. It is important to plan ahead and be aware of the specific laws and regulations in your state, as they can vary.
Massachusetts' "Blue Laws" are a set of restrictions on which businesses can operate on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays that fall under these full restrictions, meaning that package stores and most grocery chains will be closed. This can be a surprise to those who are visiting or new to the state, as the ability to purchase alcohol can vary from state to state.
However, it's important to note that bars and restaurants are not subject to these same restrictions. This means that while you may not be able to purchase alcohol to enjoy at home, you can still indulge in a drink while dining out or socialising at a bar. This exception to the "Blue Laws" provides some flexibility for those who wish to consume alcohol on Thanksgiving.
It is always a good idea to call ahead or check the website of your local bars and restaurants to confirm their hours of operation and whether they will be serving alcohol on Thanksgiving. While the "Blue Laws" do not apply to these establishments, individual businesses may choose to adjust their hours or services for the holiday. Planning ahead can help ensure that you are able to enjoy a drink with your Thanksgiving celebrations.
Overall, while Massachusetts' "Blue Laws" restrict the sale of alcohol in package and grocery stores on Thanksgiving, bars and restaurants remain a viable option for those wishing to consume alcohol. By understanding the regulations and planning ahead, individuals can still enjoy a drink with their holiday celebrations.
Non-Alcoholic Beer: Underage Access and Legal Complications
You may want to see also
Grocery stores are also restricted by Blue Laws
In Massachusetts, Thanksgiving falls under the state's "Blue Laws", which restrict the businesses that can operate on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction. This means that all package stores in Massachusetts will be closed on Thanksgiving, according to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission's holiday calendar for 2023.
Grocery stores also fall under the "Blue Laws" restrictions, so most grocery chains will be closed on Thanksgiving. This means that you won't be able to buy beer or other alcoholic beverages from your local grocery store after your Thanksgiving dinner. It is important to plan ahead and stock up on alcoholic beverages before Thanksgiving if you intend to consume or serve them during the holiday.
The "Blue Laws" in Massachusetts present a challenge for those who wish to purchase alcohol on Thanksgiving. These laws restrict the sale of alcohol in package stores and grocery stores, making it difficult for individuals to obtain alcoholic beverages during the holiday. It is advisable to check with individual stores or contact the state's alcohol control board for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding alcohol sales restrictions.
While the "Blue Laws" may pose an inconvenience to some, they also carry certain benefits. For instance, employees of package stores and grocery stores are given the day off on Thanksgiving, allowing them to spend time with their families and loved ones. Additionally, these laws can help reduce alcohol-related incidents and promote a safer environment during the holiday.
It is worth noting that the laws regarding alcohol sales on Thanksgiving vary from state to state across the United States. While Massachusetts has strict "Blue Laws" in place, other states may have different regulations. Some states allow the sale of beer and wine but prohibit the sale of liquor, while others leave it to the discretion of privately-owned stores to remain open or closed. It is always a good idea to check the specific laws and regulations in your state to avoid any confusion or disappointment.
Moosehead Beer: Where to Buy and Enjoy It
You may want to see also
Liquor stores are closed on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts
Thanksgiving in Massachusetts is one of the few holidays with full "Blue Laws" restrictions, meaning that all package stores will be closed, according to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission's holiday calendar for 2023. These Blue Laws are the state's restrictions on which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays.
Grocery stores also fall under these "Blue Laws" restrictions, so most grocery chains will be closed on Thanksgiving. This means that you will not be able to buy beer or other alcoholic drinks from your local chain after you finish your Thanksgiving dinner.
However, some privately-owned, non-state-controlled liquor stores may be open on Thanksgiving, so if you are desperate for a drink, it may be worth contacting individual stores or your state's alcohol control board for more information.
Pollyanna Beer: Availability in Normal, Illinois
You may want to see also
Some privately-owned, non-state-controlled liquor stores may be open
Thanksgiving in Massachusetts is governed by the state's "Blue Laws", which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction. This means that all package stores in Massachusetts will be closed on Thanksgiving, according to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission's holiday calendar for 2023.
However, some privately-owned, non-state-controlled liquor stores may be open on Thanksgiving. While state-run liquor stores will be closed, some counties or cities may, by ordinance, allow the sale of liquor on Thanksgiving. It is important to note that these privately-owned retailers that may be open are still subject to local and state regulations, which can vary. For example, some areas may only allow the sale of beer and wine, prohibiting the sale of liquor.
To ensure you don't run into any issues, it is recommended to plan ahead and purchase alcohol beforehand. However, if you do find yourself in need of a last-minute drink, you may be able to find a privately-owned retailer that is open, depending on the county or city you are in.
It is always a good idea to check with individual stores or contact your state's alcohol control board for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Best Places to Buy Beer in Bulk
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, you cannot buy beer or any other alcohol from a liquor store or grocery store in Massachusetts on Thanksgiving.
You can still get beer at bars and restaurants.
Thanksgiving falls under Massachusetts' "Blue Laws", which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays.
Yes, liquor stores are closed on Thanksgiving in several other states, including Alabama, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.