Toronto (Rajeev Sharma): In a rare move to accommodate sports fans across the country, the Ontario government has announced that bars and restaurants may begin serving alcohol as early as 6:00 a.m. ET this Sunday. The temporary policy shift, announced by Premier Doug Ford, comes just in time for the Canadian men’s hockey team’s gold medal showdown against the United States at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. The decision followed a dramatic 3-2 semifinal victory over Finland, secured by a late-game goal from star forward Nathan MacKinnon.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) clarified that this provincial edict applies strictly to indoor licensed areas, excluding outdoor patios. This move aligns with similar local initiatives previously passed in cities like Toronto, Hamilton, and Windsor, effectively creating a unified early-morning viewing experience across the province. Premier Ford encouraged citizens to “support local businesses” while cheering for the national team during the high-stakes game, which is scheduled to puck off at 8:10 a.m. ET.
The enthusiasm for the undefeated Canadian squad extends well into Western Canada, where several provinces have already relaxed their liquor laws. In Manitoba, the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority has authorized 57 establishments to open at 5:00 a.m. CST, provided they remain open specifically for the purpose of televising the Olympic Games. Similar measures are in place in Saskatchewan and Alberta, with Premier Danielle Smith confirming that Albertans will have the opportunity to gather in groups to witness the final medal round.
As the Canadian men prepare to face their American rivals, British Columbia is also seeing a surge in demand for extended hours. Vancouver city officials reported a spike in applications from local pubs and bars, with provincial regulators processing approvals at an accelerated pace to meet the Sunday deadline. With the national team on the verge of Olympic glory, the coordinated efforts of these provincial governments underscore the unique cultural significance of hockey in the Canadian identity.
