As the world prepares for the Seine cruise opening at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Washington, D.C. is not left out as it has announced an extended hours program for local businesses during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as for the city’s popular Dine All Night and Art All Night events.
The announcement was made on July 18 by the District’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and will take effect throughout these events: Summer Olympics (July 26-August 11), the 2024 Paralympic Games (August 28-September 8), as well as Dine All Night (September 19-29). and Art All Night (September 27-28).
ABCA Director Fred Moosally explained, “ABCA is pleased to support and facilitate the Extended Hours program to allow licensed local businesses to sell, serve, and permit the consumption of alcohol during special events. The agency will publish a roster of approved establishments on our website to assist the public with participation in these events.”
Under the recently signed emergency legislation, eligible on-premises licensed retailers can register with ABCA to serve alcohol until 4 am and operate 24 hours a day throughout the periods. Also, Art All Night and Dine All Night venues registered with the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) can offer entertainment outdoors until 11 pm and indoors until 2 am on their participating dates.
Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized the city’s enthusiasm, stating, “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. The extended hours program is one way we can support local businesses and have fun celebrating the Olympics in our Nation’s Capital.”
The DSLB Director, Rosemary Suggs-Evans, also expressed enthusiasm that the initiative extends beyond sports and nightlife, aiming to highlight Washington D.C.’s rich cultural landscape andf the importance of events like Art All Night in showcasing the city’s creative talent. She noted that the extended hours during this two-night festival would not only enhance the experience for attendees but also provide local businesses with more opportunities to contribute to D.C.’s vibrant arts scene. The program underscores the city’s status as a unique cultural hub on regional, national, and international levels.
This move by the District government reflects a broader trend of cities finding innovative ways to engage with global events and support local economies. Registrations for the Olympics and All Night events close on July 25 and September 26 respectively. Businesses that are interested can visit the ABCA website to leverage and learn more about the program
