Celebrate Wisconsinbly: A guide to the state’s weird alcohol laws

New Glarus Brewing Co.

By Christina Lorey

February 13, 2025

Every year, dozens of Wisconsin cities land on lists (like this one) of the drunkest cities in America. Like it or not, drinking has become a big part of Badger State culture. And, for that reason, we have some hyper-specific, rather unusual alcohol laws on the books:

🍺 Law #1: Gas stations and grocery stores can sell alcohol.

This is par for the course in Wisconsin, but that’s not the case in every state. Maryland, Rhode Island, and Alaska prohibit the sale of alcohol in all grocery stores, while 18 states only allow the sale of beer and wine. Seven only allow beer.

🍺 Law #2: Happy Hour deals are allowed.

The ability to offer post-work drink specials is actually written into state law. You may be wondering, “What’s the big deal?” However, 8 states (Alaska, Indiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont) don’t allow after-work alcohol discounts.

🍺 Law #3: State law allows for the sale of alcohol from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.

This is specifically for alcohol sold for takeaway consumption (i.e. at grocery stores and gas stations). Drinks sold at places with tamper-evident seals or by the glass (i.e. restaurants & bars)–are allowed to be served until 2 a.m. These laws put Wisconsin in the middle of the road when it comes to time rigidity: While Florida’s Miami-Dade County allows alcohol sales 24 hours/day, other states (Mississippi, North Carolina, Texas, and Utah) don’t allow liquor stores to be open on Sundays.

🍺 Law #4: Underage people are legally allowed to drink in a bar with their parents.

As long as their legal guardians are around, an underage person can buy and drink alcohol in Wisconsin. However, a business can deny service to minors at its own discretion.

MORE: This Wisconsin City Ranks Second in the US for Beer Lovers

Author

Christina Lorey

Christina is an Edward R. Murrow-winning journalist and former producer, reporter, and anchor for TV stations in Madison and Moline. When she’s not writing or asking questions, you can find her volunteering with Girls on the Run, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and various mental health organizations. Send all story tips to [email protected] and sign up for her newsletter here.

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CATEGORIES: LOCAL CULTURE

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