Toronto city council will discuss a proposal that could permit bars, cafes, and restaurants to start serving alcohol at 6 a.m. during the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. This temporary change aims to enable residents to support Team Canada despite the significant time difference.
The proposal, initiated by Mayor Olivia Chow, suggests extending alcohol sales and service hours from Feb. 5 to Feb. 22. Should it be approved, the bylaw would come into effect immediately and conclude at the end of the Games.
Numerous Olympic events, such as key hockey matches and medal contests, are set to kick off early in the morning Toronto time. This has led the city to contemplate relaxing regulations to allow fans to gather together to watch the action.
Chow, in her presentation to the council, emphasized that this adjustment would allow both residents and businesses to fully engage in the Games. She highlighted the anticipated early-morning viewing gatherings throughout the city and argued that restaurants and cafes should have the opportunity to open sooner to capitalize on the increased foot traffic during the two-week global event.
In the proposal, Chow stated, “The City should do everything we can to support these local businesses.”
According to Ontario’s Liquor Licence and Control Act, municipalities possess the power to enact bylaws extending alcohol service hours for special occasions. Chow’s recommendation urges the city council to sanction the temporary extension and empower the City Solicitor to introduce the required bylaw.
The Milano Cortina Winter Olympics are scheduled from Feb. 4 to 22, with many competitions commencing around 6 a.m. ET. City officials have indicated that the measure would be applicable citywide and would be voluntary for businesses opting to open early.