WASHINGTON — D.C. is gearing up to turn the 2024 Paris Olympics into a city-wide celebration with extended bar hours that rival the athletes' endurance. From dusk till dawn, here's how the nation's capital plans to keep the party going all season long.
With the start of the Summer Olympics less than two weeks away, the District's Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) reminds residents that certain establishments and venues will operate 24 hours a day and will be able to serve alcohol even later than usual. This includes during the Olympics (July 26 to Aug. 11), the 2024 Paralympic Games (Aug. 28 to Sept. 8), as well as Dine All Night (Sept. 19-29). and Art All Night (Sept. 27 and 28).
“We’re the Sports Capital and we know that sports bring people together and that many people enjoy cheering on their favorite athletes and teams alongside other fans,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “The extended hours program is one way we can support local businesses and have fun celebrating the Olympics in our Nation’s Capital.”
New emergency laws enable bars and restaurants to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. and stay open 24/7 during certain times. Additionally, venues participating in Art All Night and Dine All Night can now host outdoor entertainment until 11 p.m. and indoor entertainment until 2 a.m. on specified dates.
Some residents along the U Street Corridor told WUSA9 they think the program will help boost local businesses.
"I would say it's a good idea," D.C. resident Sean Freeman said. "I am pretty sure people will be out having fun. It will be a lit time."
Others say they support the extended hours, but voiced concerns about public safety.
"As long as everyone is respecting each other, minding each other's space and having the right amount of crowd control, police and security," resident Kenneth Hamilton said.
Erica Alexander said she would be willing to participate to support Team USA, but would like to see additional resources dedicated to bar areas.
"They need to have the police out and security out because D.C. is high in crime right now," she said.
ABCA Director Fred Moosally said the agency will publish a roster of approved establishments on its website to assist the public with participation in these events.
Any venue interested in participating can submit registration forms and fees using the links below:
- Summer Olympics / Paralympics Registration Form | Deadline: July 25
- Art All Night / Dine All Night Registration Form | Deadline: Sept. 26
“Art All Night showcases the vibrant creativity and diverse talent that make DC a unique regional, national, and international cultural hub,” said DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans. “Allowing our local businesses to extend their hours during this District two-night festival will enhance the overall experience for event attendees and provide our local businesses with expanded opportunities to contribute to the city's dynamic arts scene.”
Eligible bars and venues can opt out of extended hours. For registration inquiries, contact ABRA’s Licensing Division at abc@dc.gov or (202) 442-4423. More information and applications are on ABCA's website.