Windsor Extends Liquor Service Hours to Help Celebrate the Olympic Spirit
The City of Windsor has moved forward with a show of support for the hospitality sector, and to help Windsor residents come together to enjoy the excitement of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Windsor City Council unanimously approved designating the 2026 Winter Olympic Games as an event of municipal significance. Following this, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) approved a temporary extension of liquor sale and service hours in Windsor upon receiving a request from the City.
Eligible licensed establishments may now begin selling and serving alcohol at 6:00 a.m., allowing fans to gather and cheer on their favourite athletes during early-morning Olympic events, including the upcoming hockey semifinals for Team Canada.
This temporary extension is in effect immediately and will remain in place until February 22, 2026. The standard last call of 2:00 a.m. remains unchanged.
The extended hours apply only to indoor licensed areas and do not include outdoor spaces such as patios.
All licensees must continue to comply with the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019, its regulations, and the Registrar’s standards and requirements. Responsible sale and service of alcohol remain mandatory.
The City reminds residents and businesses to celebrate safely and responsibly while enjoying the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.
Quotes:
“Canadians take great pride in our athletes and the talent we grow here at home, and Windsor also proudly embraces its identity as a true hockey town. Sport brings our community together and strengthens the bonds that define us, while watching Olympians compete at the top level inspires young athletes to push themselves to achieve their goals. With Olympic events airing early due to the time difference, we’re working to help support the hospitality sector while giving residents the opportunity to show their pride and support Team Canada. Thank you to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario for their partnership and consideration in helping make this possible for Windsor.”
- Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens
“This is about supporting our local businesses and ensuring Windsor is ready to rally behind Team Canada. I want to thank City Council, Premier Doug Ford, and the Mayor’s Office for acting so swiftly to make this happen. By designating the Olympic Games as an event of municipal significance, we’re trying to not only show our pride, but to boost the hospitality sector during a major international moment. Our restaurants and bars are vital to the vibrancy of our downtown and neighbourhoods across the city, and this is another way we’re doing everything we can to help Strengthen the Core.”
- Councillor Renaldo Agostino, Ward 3