Finding Open Liquor Stores in Texas Before NYE Holiday Closures

Finding Liquor Stores Open Near You in Texas

As New Year's Eve approaches, many Texans are looking to stock up on liquor, wine, beer, and other spirits to ring in 2024. However, Texas has unique liquor laws that regulate when stores can sell alcohol. With Dec. 30th being the start of a holiday closure period, Texans need to plan ahead when searching for "liquor stores near me."

Texas Liquor Store Closures Over the Holidays

Texas state law mandates that all liquor stores close for business on December 30th at 9:01 pm. They will remain closed on federal holidays and not reopen until January 2nd at 10 am. This includes all standalone liquor stores, grocery stores, gas stations, and other retailers licensed to sell spirits in Texas.

These businesses cannot sell any alcoholic products for off-premises consumption for over 60 hours straight. So Texans need to make sure they purchase all the wine, liquor, beer and mixers they need for New Year's Eve parties and celebrations ahead of the 9 pm closure on December 30th.

Planning Your Liquor Purchases Around the Holiday Closures

Don't get caught without enough spirits for your end-of-year festivities! Make sure to visit your local liquor stores sometime between December 26th through 30th before 9 pm closing. Stock up on all your party essentials, from champagne and craft beers to frozen cocktails and liqueurs for mixed drinks.

Some recommendations of items to have for New Year's Eve include:

• Sparkling wines like Cava, Prosecco, and Champagne.
• Vodka, rum, whiskey, and other popular liquors.
• Wine, canned cocktails, hard seltzers for variety.
• Garnishes like olives, lemons, limes and cherries.
• Cocktail mixers: club soda, tonic, juices, etc.
• Ice and other beverage chillers/coolers.

Just remember - after 9:01 pm on December 30th, no more liquor purchases can be made anywhere statewide until January 2nd, 2024 at 10 am. So get to those liquor stores near youbefore then!

Searching for Stores Open Near Me with Booze

You can find nearby liquor stores that should still be open before the holiday shutdown using some helpful online resources:

• Search Google Maps/Google Search for "liquor stores near me."
• Check individual store websites and social media for hours.
• Browse listings on Texas liquor store directory sites.
• Search Yelp/other review sites and call to confirm hours.
• Check major grocery/retailers like Spec's, Total Wine, Walmart, etc.

When searching for "liquor stores near me" open before 9:01 pm on December 30th, be sure to call ahead or check online listings. Hours may vary by location for local liquor stores and major chains in the days preceding the closure period.

Abiding by Texas Liquor Laws Over the Holidays

As you search for places to purchase your New Year's spirits, keep Texas liquor laws in mind throughout the holiday season:

• No sales allowed from 9:01 pm on December 30th through January 1st.
• Liquor stores reopen January 2nd at 10 am statewide.
• All liquor stores are closed on federal holidays per Texas law.
• Sales not allowed to intoxicated persons - ID may be checked.
• Note restrictions like hours/days of sales in certain counties.

Following all state regulations allows liquor stores to avoid penalties and happily serve customers during open hours. So enjoy your holiday spirits responsibly and legally!

Finding Alternatives Over the Liquor Store Shutdown Period

For those who missed the December 30th cut-off, all hope is not lost! Here are some ideas for where you may be able to legally purchase alcohol during the brief liquor store closure timeframe:

Restaurants & Bars Serving Drinks for On-Site Consumption

Restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, and other establishments with valid liquor licenses can still serve alcoholic drinks for consumption on their premises over the holidays. So you can head to your favorite local watering hole for a glass of bubbly or cocktail while liquor stores are closed statewide.

Out-of-State Options

Texans living near state borders may have better luck. Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico do not have the same legal restrictions on liquor sales over the holidays. Residents in border cities/counties can cross state lines to purchase wine, beer, and spirits from out-of-state retailers.

Existing Private Inventories

Friends with well-stocked bars may be your best bet! If anyone you know purchased enough liquor, wine, beer and mixers before December 30th, see if they are open to sharing/hosting to help you ring in the New Year.

By being prepared and knowing Texas liquor laws, everyone can find ways to responsibly enjoy their favorite spirits this holiday season. Just remember to plan ahead and check if your nearby stores are among those answering "Yes, we're open!" when searching for "liquor stores near me."

FAQs

When do Texas liquor stores close for the holidays?

All liquor stores in Texas close at 9:01 pm on December 30th and remain closed on December 31st and January 1st each year for the New Year's holiday.

When will liquor stores reopen after the holiday closure?

Liquor stores in Texas are allowed to reopen on January 2nd at 10 am after being closed for the holiday period.

Can I still buy alcohol at bars and restaurants when liquor stores are closed?

Yes, establishments with valid liquor licenses can still serve alcoholic drinks for on-site consumption even when liquor stores are closed in Texas.

Are grocery and convenience stores that sell alcohol also required to close?

Yes. All retailers including grocery and convenience stores must follow the same rules of ceasing liquor sales during the holiday closure period in Texas.