If you're planning a big Thanksgiving get-together, you might be wondering if you can stock up on beer in Massachusetts. Well, it's not so straightforward. While some states allow liquor stores to operate on Thanksgiving, others don't. Unfortunately for those in Massachusetts, it is illegal to purchase alcohol on Thanksgiving. This prohibition falls under the state's Blue Laws, which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays. So, if you're planning a party, make sure you buy your beer in advance!
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Alcohol sales on Thanksgiving | Banned |
Alcohol sales on other days | Allowed |
Type of alcohol | Beer, wine, and spirits |
Places of purchase | Bars and restaurants |
What You'll Learn
Beer can be purchased at bars and restaurants
If you're in Massachusetts and looking to buy beer on Thanksgiving, you're in luck—you can still get drinks at bars and restaurants. While package and liquor stores in the state are closed on Thanksgiving, you can still purchase beer at bars and restaurants. So, if you're craving a cold one with your Thanksgiving dinner, simply head to your nearest bar or restaurant.
Massachusetts' "Blue Laws" prohibit the sale of alcohol in package and liquor stores on certain holidays, including Thanksgiving. These laws were originally enacted to restrict the sale of alcohol on Sundays but have since been expanded to include other holidays. While you won't be able to grab a 12-pack from your local grocery store or package store, you can still enjoy a beer with your meal at a bar or restaurant.
It's worth noting that these laws vary from state to state, so if you're travelling or in a different area, be sure to check the local regulations. Some states may only restrict liquor sales, while others may allow beer and wine sales. Additionally, some states have county-specific regulations, so it's always a good idea to call ahead and check with the specific bar or restaurant you plan to visit.
Thanksgiving is a time to relax and enjoy time with friends and family, and for many, a cold beer is part of that enjoyment. So, if you're in Massachusetts and craving a beer, head to your local bar or restaurant and raise a glass to the things you're thankful for. Cheers!
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Alcohol sales are prohibited in grocery stores
While it may be inconvenient for those who need to stock up on drinks for the holiday, the law does provide liquor store owners and employees with the option to spend the day with their families. This law is not unique to Massachusetts, as several other states also have similar restrictions on alcohol sales during Thanksgiving.
It is worth noting that these laws do not apply to bars and restaurants, where customers can still purchase alcoholic beverages on Thanksgiving. Additionally, some privately-owned liquor stores may be open, depending on the owner's discretion. However, it is always a good idea to call ahead and check with individual stores or the state's alcohol control board for the most accurate information.
Planning ahead is essential to avoid any last-minute alcohol-related headaches on Thanksgiving Day in Massachusetts.
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Liquor stores are closed on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving falls under Massachusetts' "Blue Laws", which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction, meaning that all package stores in the state will be closed. This also applies to grocery stores, so you won't be able to grab a drink from your local supermarket after your Thanksgiving feast.
The laws regarding alcohol sales on Thanksgiving vary from state to state. While some states allow liquor stores to operate, others, like Massachusetts, do not. In some states, alcohol sales are limited to beer or wine, while others prohibit the sale of liquor entirely. So, if you're travelling to another state for Thanksgiving, be sure to check the local laws to avoid any surprises.
While it may be an inconvenience to some, the closure of liquor stores on Thanksgiving is supported by many liquor store owners and employees, who appreciate having the day off to spend with their families. So, if you're hosting a Thanksgiving gathering, be sure to stock up on drinks beforehand, and remember to enjoy the day with your loved ones.
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Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction
Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays with a full restriction on alcohol sales in Massachusetts. While the state allows the sale of beer, wine, and spirits at grocery stores, retail alcohol sales are prohibited on specific holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. This means that liquor stores and convenience stores are not permitted to sell alcohol on Thanksgiving. However, it's important to note that this restriction does not apply to bars and restaurants, where customers can still purchase drinks.
The restriction on alcohol sales during Thanksgiving in Massachusetts has sparked some debate. State Rep. Colleen Garry has proposed a bill to legalise alcohol sales on Thanksgiving, arguing that it would be more convenient for residents. However, some liquor store employees and owners have expressed their preference for keeping the stores closed on this holiday, valuing the family time it provides.
The origin of this law can be traced back to the "Blue Laws" from the Colonial days, influenced by the belief that drinking alcohol on a holiday was unholy. While Massachusetts is one of the few states with a full restriction, other states have similar regulations. For instance, Alabama allows the purchase of beer and wine but prohibits the sale of liquor on Thanksgiving.
It's worth noting that the regulations regarding alcohol sales during Thanksgiving vary from state to state. Some states, like Louisiana and Oregon, have a mix of counties or areas that allow or restrict liquor sales on this holiday. To avoid any inconvenience, it's recommended that individuals check with their state's alcohol control board or specific stores to confirm their operating hours and restrictions.
Overall, while Thanksgiving is a holiday that centres around family and celebration, the full restriction on alcohol sales in Massachusetts and a few other states remains in place. This restriction primarily applies to liquor stores and convenience stores, while bars and restaurants can continue serving alcoholic beverages.
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You can buy beer in MA on Thanksgiving if the store is privately owned
In Massachusetts, Thanksgiving falls under 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, meaning that all package stores in the state will be closed. Grocery stores also fall under these restrictions, so most grocery chains will be closed too.
However, some sources suggest that privately-owned stores may be open at the owner's discretion. This is because, while some states have state-operated liquor stores, others are more lenient with alcohol sales. In Massachusetts, liquor laws are set by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, which deemed Thanksgiving 2023 a day on which all package stores must be closed.
So, if you're in Massachusetts and hoping to buy beer on Thanksgiving, it's worth checking ahead with privately-owned stores to see if they will be open.
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Frequently asked questions
You can't. In Massachusetts, it is illegal to purchase alcohol on Thanksgiving. This includes beer, wine, and spirits.
Yes, you can still get drinks at bars and restaurants.
The ban falls under Massachusetts' "Blue Laws", which restrict which businesses can be open on Sundays or holidays. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays under full restriction.
Yes, several other states prohibit alcohol sales on Thanksgiving. These include Alabama, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Texas.