Ontario Extending Last Call to 4 A.M. During FIFA World Cup 2026™
Extending Last Call During FIFA World Cup 2026™ to Support Ontario Tourism and Hospitality
TORONTO — The Ontario government will temporarily extend alcohol sale and service hours across the province until 4 a.m. during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, as officials look to support tourism, restaurants, bars and hospitality workers during the global tournament.
The temporary extension will apply from June 11 to July 19, 2026, allowing licensed establishments such as bars and restaurants to remain open later than Ontario’s standard 2 a.m. last call.
“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 preparing for global spotlight
Toronto is scheduled to host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches at Toronto Stadium as part of the largest FIFA World Cup tournament in history.
The 2026 event will feature:
- 48 national teams
- Host cities across Canada, the United States and Mexico
- Matches in Toronto and Vancouver in Canada
Ontario officials say extending service hours will help create a stronger visitor experience while boosting economic activity in tourism and hospitality sectors.
“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 Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho.
Ontario is allowing licensed restaurants and bars across the province to extend the sale and service of alcohol until 4 a.m. during FIFA World Cup 2026™.
The temporary extension will apply from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
🔗: https://t.co/HRrMDMXRFt pic.twitter.com/EofDNbCNKs
— Doug Downey (@douglasdowney) May 19, 2026
Hospitality industry welcomes move
Industry groups and tourism organizations welcomed the temporary extension, saying it will help businesses capitalize on increased visitor traffic during the tournament.
The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA), and Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA) all voiced support for the initiative.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow also said the change will help local businesses benefit from the international event while showcasing Toronto’s hospitality sector to global visitors.
LCBO extending store hours
The province also confirmed the LCBO will extend operating hours at 27 select retail stores across the GTA and Ottawa during the tournament period.
Extended LCBO hours will include:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The province says the temporary measures build on previous extended service policies introduced during major international sporting events.
Economic and tourism impact
Ontario officials view the FIFA World Cup 2026™ as a major tourism and economic opportunity for the province, particularly for:
- Restaurants and bars
- Hotels and accommodations
- Tourism operators
- Entertainment venues
- Hospitality workers
The province says the temporary extension is intended to help businesses accommodate increased visitor demand while contributing to a vibrant tournament atmosphere across Ontario communities.
GTA Today Sports & Tourism Watch covers the major sporting events, tourism developments and entertainment initiatives shaping the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario.
Follow us @GTATodayNews for continuing FIFA World Cup 2026™ coverage.
