New York Lifts Sunday Alcohol Rules for Olympic Hockey

Governor suspends alcohol service hours for fans to watch gold medal game.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York State Liquor Authority will temporarily suspend enforcement of alcohol service hours on Sunday between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m., allowing bars and restaurants to open early for fans watching the Olympic gold medal hockey game. However, the change does not apply to areas under a State of Emergency due to the recent blizzard.

Why it matters

This move by the governor aims to create a communal viewing experience for fans of the U.S. Olympic hockey team as they compete for the gold medal against Canada. Lifting the alcohol service restrictions will allow more New Yorkers to gather and celebrate the big game together.

The details

The temporary suspension of the Sunday alcohol service rules applies only to areas not under a State of Emergency due to the recent blizzard. Any counties included in the emergency declaration, such as New York City, Long Island, and Albany, will not be permitted to offer early alcohol service. The governor emphasized that public safety remains the top priority.

  • The Olympic gold medal hockey game is scheduled for 8:10 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2026.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York who announced the temporary suspension of the Sunday alcohol service rules.

New York State Liquor Authority

The state agency that will be suspending enforcement of the alcohol service hours on Sunday morning.

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What they’re saying

“Our top priority remains keeping people in communities impacted by the blizzard safe and off the roads.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor (whec.com)

“The whole place stopped and watched together. I hope a new generation of New Yorkers gets that same moment tomorrow.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor (whec.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This decision by Governor Hochul demonstrates the state's commitment to fostering a sense of community and shared experience around major sporting events, even if it requires temporarily relaxing certain regulations. It highlights the power of sports to bring people together, especially in challenging times.