The Calgary Stampede is a highlight of summer in our province, and the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC) is helping enhance the experience by introducing more flexible liquor rules throughout the festivities.
Bars, restaurants and lounges in the City of Calgary will have the option of beginning liquor service at 8 a.m. during the 2015 Stampede (July 3 to 12). Licensees are expected to continue to offer service in a socially responsible way to ensure the safety of their patrons during these special hours.
Licensees do not have to apply for this particular extension, which applies to early service only – closing hours for liquor service are not changing and all other rules guiding the service remain in effect.
AGLC has granted early liquor service hours for special events for years, from pancake breakfasts at the Stampede to large sporting events like the Olympics.
As a result of past success, Class A, B and C licensees on the parade route can contact AGLC to request early liquor service hours of 7 a.m. or 7:30 a.m. for the Parade Day (July 3).
If a group is holding a special event, they still need to apply for a liquor licence. Hours for special events are determined on a case-by-case basis.