NYC Proposes Outdoor Drinking Zones for 2026 World Cup

Assemblymember Tony Simone introduces bill to allow 'sip and stroll' areas during soccer tournament.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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New York Assemblymember Tony Simone has introduced a bill that would allow New York City and other municipalities to set up 'entertainment zones' where patrons could purchase and consume alcoholic beverages outdoors during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The proposed measure would only be in effect from June 1 through July 31 of this year, coinciding with the international soccer tournament.

Why it matters

This proposal aims to help local bars and restaurants capitalize on the influx of soccer fans expected in New York City during the World Cup. However, the bill faces a tight timeline to gain approval from the state legislature and governor, as well as individual cities and the State Liquor Authority, before the tournament begins in June.

The details

Simone's bill would allow businesses with existing liquor licenses to serve beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks in designated 'sip and stroll' zones within high-density restaurant and bar areas, such as Hell's Kitchen. The measure is modeled after a similar law passed in Washington state, which is also hosting World Cup matches.

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2026.
  • Simone introduced the bill on February 24, 2026.
  • If signed into law, the proposed outdoor drinking zones would only be in effect from June 1 through July 31, 2026.

The players

Tony Simone

A Manhattan Democrat serving in the New York State Assembly, who introduced the bill to allow outdoor drinking zones during the 2026 World Cup.

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York, who would need to sign Simone's bill into law for it to take effect.

FIFA

The international governing body for association football, which is organizing the 2026 World Cup that will include matches hosted in New York City.

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What they’re saying

“Clearly, we'll have to move fast. It actually is a more controlled way of ensuring that small businesses can take advantage of the World Cup coming to New York City.”

— Tony Simone, New York State Assemblymember (Gothamist)

What’s next

The New York State Legislature and Governor Kathy Hochul will need to approve Simone's bill before individual cities and the State Liquor Authority can establish the proposed outdoor drinking zones in time for the start of the 2026 World Cup on June 1.

The takeaway

This proposal highlights the potential economic opportunities and challenges that major sporting events like the World Cup can present for local businesses in host cities. If approved, the outdoor drinking zones could help bars and restaurants capitalize on increased foot traffic, but the tight timeline to get the necessary approvals in place may prove difficult.