AGCO extends Hamilton’s liquor sale hours for Olympics

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has approved a temporary extension of liquor sale and service hours in Hamilton during the Winter Olympics.

That’s music to the ears of bar and restaurant owners who are just trying to get through the winter doldrums.

This afternoon, Canada took on France, not what you would consider a massive draw for fans, but it still brought people out to The Endzone Bar & Grill in East Hamilton.

“It’s amazing, great atmosphere. Canada is winning. Great way to represent your county and cheer on the nation,” said one customer.

“It’s great, nice to be out with friends, spend quality time with people. It’s never a bad day when Canada wins.”

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“It only comes once every four years and brings our nation together. It’s been a tough time for the hospitality industry; we could use the business,” said Greg Koropatnicki from The Endzone Bar & Grill.

Establishments like The Endzone Bar & Grill are about to get more business during the Olympics. In response to a motion from the City of Hamilton, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario is allowing bars and restaurants in town to begin selling alcohol as early as 6 am until February 22nd.

“It’s difficult for these establishments in February. This will boost attendance in our bars at the end of the day, we’re supporting small businesses in any way we can with no cost to taxpayers,” says Matt Francis.

While some people are concerned about allowing drinking that early, the owners of The Endzone say it’s not about alcohol, “It’s about bringing people together. This is going to be electric. It has nothing to do with alcohol, it’s about being open and rooting Canada on, and if we play the states it will be crazy. Especially at this time.”

“Who’s to say someone will drink first thing in the morning. They can have breakfast and a mimosa while cheering on their country.”

For the fans that were watching Team Canada demolish France, they were excited about the opportunity to come to the bar with their friends and watch their team vie for a gold medal, especially if it’s against the States.

“It’s amazing, it’s bringing the community together in Canada. Especially if we play the States in the final, it’s not about hockey anymore. It’s about all the stuff going on in the world.”

If Canada does make it to the gold medal game, it will be played next Sunday at around 8 a.m.

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