Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Let’s cut to the chase – I’ve got the info you need on what time you can buy beer in Washington. Wondering how I know this? Well, I’ve visited a few bars, restaurants, and convenience stores myself and gotten the facts from someone who actually lives there.
Why is this important, you ask? Well, knowing the Washington legal alcohol sale hours is important for someone planning to spend some time in the Pacific Northwest. This lets them know how to best prepare for their beer and wine runs.
If this sounds like you, read on!
Table of Contents
ToggleWhen Do Washington Liquor Stores Sell Beer?
In Washington State, you can purchase alcohol for both on and off-premise consumption between 6 a.m. and 2 am the next day.
You can buy alcohol from Washington gas stations, grocery stores, liquor stores, breweries, and taprooms, which are part of the licensed businesses crew that can sell alcohol during those hours.
Likewise, bars and restaurants can serve alcohol from 6 a.m. to 2 am., but keep in mind that their closing time can change depending on local jurisdictions and their schedules.
“Sips flow freely in Washington, where rules meet refreshment.” – Liquor Laboratory
And remember those old “blue laws” that used to mess with the Sunday sales of alcohol? Well, Washington kicked those to the curb back in 1967. So, yes, you can buy alcohol on Sundays. Sunday liquor sales hours are from 6 a.m. to 2 am, just like any other day of the week. [1]
What Are The Alcohol Sales Laws In Washington State?
First things first: the Washington alcohol laws state that the minimum drinking age is 21 years old. This is a universal rule across the country, which states that it is illegal for underage individuals to possess, purchase, or consume alcohol. Providing alcohol to a minor is also illegal and a violation of this law.
If you’re thinking of grabbing your brews from the local grocery store, here’s the deal: the alcohol sales laws in Washington surrounding these spots allow them to sell beer and wine from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Big chain grocery stores in Washington can also sell liquor.
When it comes to Washington bars, they’re open for business from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day. Usually, the last call to buy alcohol is at 2 a.m., though bars that are part of restaurants might close as soon as the restaurant does.
And if you’re on a Washington road, it’s a no-no to have open alcohol containers in the vehicle. Keep those containers sealed up and stored safely. Breaking this rule can result in fines, community service, or even jail time. [2]
Overall, Washington’s drinking laws are pretty reasonable. Compared to other states, the Washington State Laws are not that strict. The state used to have its fingers in the liquor market, but now it’s all about privatization.
Where & When Can You Buy Beer?
Grocery Stores
You can purchase alcohol from grocery stores between 6 a.m. and 2 a.m. any day of the week.
Large grocery stores can also sell liquor, making it easy to get your beer and wine fix during your weekly grocery run. Sunday sales of liquor are also legal in grocery stores.
Gas Stations
Gas stations and convenience stores can sell beer and wine from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. However, any alcohol you purchase can only be for off-premise consumption.
Bars & Restaurants
You can buy alcohol and beer from bars and restaurants from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Any alcohol you purchase should be for on-premise consumption. Some spots also offer growlers for you to enjoy later.
Also Read:
- Oklahoma Beer Hours
- Colorado Beer Hours
- Tennessee Beer Hours
- South Carolina Beer Hours
- Michigan Beer Hours
Package & Liquor Stores
Package and liquor stores can sell beer and wine every day from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. Some liquor stores might even offer tastings for those in the mood to sample.
Breweries & Taprooms
You can buy beer from breweries and taprooms from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., too. They welcome those who want to sip on-site and buy beer to take home. Breweries can also fill or sell growlers.
Is Beer Delivery Allowed In Washington?
Yes, you can buy beer and have it delivered to your home in Washington State, but there are a few rules to keep things in check. [3]
Firstly, you must be of legal age to buy liquor and have it delivered to your home. The delivery employee has to confirm your age before handing over any beer and alcohol.
The delivery must be made to an address that USPS recognizes, and the customer receiving the delivery can’t be visibly drunk/under the influence.
Delivery hours if you want to buy beer and alcohol are between 6 a.m. and 2 a.m., so you’re covered for the day throughout most of the night.
“Washington’s spirits flow within the bounds of its mindful laws.” – John Brewer
Washington alcohol laws have put these regulations in place because of the growing demand for beer and wine delivery. Times are changing, and luckily, the world of beer and alcohol delivery has also been evolving.
Is It A Dry State?
No, Washington is not a dry state. However, the whole of Washington State isn’t completely dry – certain areas have some restrictions.
The Washington State only has one dry area: the Yamaka Native American Reservation, which covers Yamaka County and a chunk of Klickitat County. This is the only Washington county where purchasing alcohol is illegal. [4]
The rest of Washington State is considered “wet” – you can purchase alcohol even in College Place, which is known not to have any bars.
Read: When To Buy Beer In New York
Washington’s Open Container Laws
Generally, the Open Container Laws in Washington State state that it’s illegal to take your open containers of alcohol from where you bought it for off-premise consumption. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, which we’ll list below:
- If you brought the booze via a banquet permit, you can take it out, provided it’s resealed in its original container after the event.
- You can take out any wine you bought with a meal, provided it’s recorked or resealed.
- If you bought liquor from a hotel or motel, you can take it out if it’s resealed in its original container.
- Liquor with a broken seal can also be taken from licensed premises for catering purposes.
This Open Container Law is also pretty consistent in vehicles. In Washington, drinking from an open container is a no-no for the driver and passengers in a motor vehicle – you must keep it in the trunk or a locked glove box.
However, there are also some exceptions to this rule. If you live in a motor home, you can legally drink from open containers. The same can be said for passengers drinking from open containers in hired vehicles like a fancy limo.
How Late Can You Buy Beer In Washington?
Weekdays
In Washington, you’ve got a pretty good window to grab your beer during weekdays. From Monday to Friday, you can buy beer between 6 a.m. and 2 am the next day.
Keep in mind, though, that local jurisdictions may tweak these hours a bit, so it’s always a good idea to double-check.
Sundays
Ah, Sundays – the perfect day for relaxation and, of course, beer enjoyment. Washington waved goodbye to “blue laws” back in 1967, so Sunday sales of liquor are totally legal. You can now grab your favorite beer on Sundays just like any other day – from 6 a.m. to 2 am the next day.
FAQs Related to What time can you buy beer in Washington?
What time can you buy beer in Washington?
In Washington, beer can be purchased from retail outlets such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and liquor stores from 6:00 a.m. until 2:00 a.m., Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, beer sales begin at 8:00 a.m.
Are there any restrictions on the days of the week for buying beer in Washington?
Beer sales are permitted every day of the week in Washington. However, on Sundays, beer sales begin later in the morning compared to other days.
Can you buy beer from bars or restaurants at any time in Washington?
Yes, bars and restaurants in Washington can sell beer for on-premises consumption during their regular operating hours, which may vary depending on local regulations.
Are there any age restrictions for purchasing beer in Washington?
Yes, individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase beer in Washington. Proper identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is typically required to verify age.
Can you purchase beer from gas stations in Washington?
Yes, beer is commonly sold at gas stations and convenience stores in Washington. These establishments are subject to the same regulations regarding hours of sale as other retail outlets.
Are there penalties for violating beer sales laws in Washington?
Yes, violating beer sales laws in Washington can result in penalties for both the seller and the purchaser. These penalties may include fines, legal repercussions, or loss of alcohol sales privileges.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, you can buy beer in Washington anytime between 6 a.m. and 2 am the next day. The alcohol laws surrounding Sunday liquor sales follow the same rules – 6 a.m. to 2 am.
Bars and restaurants in Washington have their own curfew, too – they can sell alcohol until 2 am. However, local jurisdictions may ask these private establishments to have different hours, so it’s better to check personally with them.
These Washington alcohol sale hours are set to keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone. So, always remember to sip responsibly while exploring Washington’s drink scene.
References:
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/blue-law
- https://alcoholpolicy.niaaa.nih.gov/apis-policy-topics/open-containers-of-alcohol-in-motor-vehicles/34/variables
- https://lcb.wa.gov/licensing/direct-shipping-laws
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Yakama