Province aims to boost tourism, hospitality and local business activity during global soccer tournament
TORONTO — The Ontario government will temporarily allow licensed bars and restaurants across the province to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, a move aimed at supporting tourism, hospitality businesses and workers as Canada hosts part of the international tournament next summer.
The extended service hours will apply from June 11 to July 19, 2026, according to an announcement released Tuesday by the Ministry of the Attorney General. Ontario’s standard last call for alcohol service is currently 2 a.m.
The province said the measure is intended to help businesses capitalize on increased visitor traffic expected during the tournament, while also enhancing the fan experience in Toronto and across Ontario.
“This summer, fans visiting from around the world will gather in Toronto to celebrate world-class sport,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “Allowing restaurants and bars to stay open later means that fans can fully experience the energy, excitement and atmosphere of the tournament while supporting jobs, strengthening local businesses and driving economic growth across Ontario.”
Toronto set to host six World Cup matches
FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the largest edition of the tournament to date, featuring 48 national teams competing across Canada, the United States and Mexico. Toronto is scheduled to host six matches at Toronto Stadium, while Vancouver will also stage games in Canada.
The Ontario government said it is working with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to implement the temporary extension for licensed establishments, including bars and restaurants, for the duration of the event.
Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, said the measure would help create a welcoming atmosphere for international visitors while generating economic activity for the province’s tourism sector.
“Extending last call during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ will help Ontario deliver a safe, vibrant and welcoming experience for fans from around the world,” said Cho. “As Ontario welcomes visitors for this global event, this measure will give people more time to enjoy our world-class bars and restaurants while supporting the province’s tourism sector.”
Hospitality industry anticipates economic benefits
Industry groups representing tourism, hotels and restaurants welcomed the province’s decision, saying the temporary extension would help businesses manage higher demand during the tournament period.
Andrew Siegwart, President and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), said the policy would provide additional flexibility for operators while strengthening Ontario’s profile as a host destination.
“TIAO welcomes this temporary measure as a practical step to help Ontario’s tourism and hospitality businesses make the most of the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup 2026™,” said Siegwart. “Major global events create unique opportunities for destinations to showcase their hospitality, and extending service hours for participating licensed establishments gives operators additional flexibility to create memorable guest experiences, support incremental business activity and generate added income opportunities for workers. For visitors celebrating matches across Ontario, this helps enhance the overall event atmosphere and reinforces Ontario’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming host destination.”
The Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA) also endorsed the move, citing the anticipated increase in tourism-related spending.
“ORHMA welcomes the province’s decision to extend alcohol service hours during FIFA World Cup 2026™ events,” said Tony Elenis, President and CEO of ORHMA. “This temporary change will help hospitality businesses accommodate increased visitor demand and support the tourism activity generated by a major international event. We appreciate the government’s recognition of the role Ontario’s hospitality industry plays in delivering a positive visitor experience during globally significant events such as this.”
Toronto officials prepare for international spotlight
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said the city is preparing to welcome visitors from around the world and expects local businesses to benefit from the tournament.
“Across Toronto, residents and visitors will experience a city ready to welcome the world,” said Chow. “The Ontario government’s decision helps local bars, restaurants and businesses benefit from the excitement of FIFA World Cup 26™, while showcasing the world-class hospitality that defines Toronto.”
Hotel operators are also forecasting a surge in tourism demand tied to the tournament.
“The Greater Toronto Hotel Association is pleased with the Ontario government’s initiative to extend hours of alcohol service for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ taking place in Toronto,” said Sara Anghel, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA). “This tournament will deliver a significant economic boost for the region’s hospitality and hotel sectors, and extended service hours will enable fans to enjoy the festivities even more.”
Province builds on previous event-related alcohol measures
The temporary extension follows similar measures introduced during other major sporting events. The province previously extended alcohol service hours during the 2026 Olympic gold medal hockey game between Canada and the United States.
Ontario has also made broader changes to its liquor regulations in recent years. Last summer, the province amended the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 framework to permit alcohol sales and consumption on pedal pubs.
In addition to extended last call hours, the LCBO said 27 retail locations across the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa will operate under expanded hours during the World Cup period. Stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.