Bars in Toronto could start serving booze as early as 6 a.m. for the Olympics

The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games are just around the corner, set to commence on Friday, Feb. 6, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow wants to make it easier for the city's residents to enjoy the festivities.

With Milan's time zone six hours ahead of Toronto's, excitement for the upcoming games has been tempered by the natural question of logistics. More specifically, the question of how the city's residents will be able to enjoy a pint at their local bar while watching early-morning — er, midday — events.

Let's be honest, it's mostly just about hockey, no offence, ski mountaineering. 

Lucky for us, Mayor Chow appears to share in those concerns, as on Feb. 3, she brought forth a motion that would allow local bars, restaurants and cafes to begin serving alcohol as early as 6 a.m. for the duration of the games.

Eateries in Toronto may only serve alcohol between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., with extensions available only if the City passes a by-law allowing it.

The proposal is less about ensuring that the city's residents can keep their buzz alive during Olympic events than about allowing local businesses to thrive during that time.

"The time difference between Toronto and Italy means that some events and games will start at 6:00 a.m. EST. As a result, people will want to patronize local cafes and restaurants earlier than standard operating hours," reads the summary of the motion. 

"For restaurants who wish to open and serve customers, the City should do everything we can to support these local businesses."

In a supporting letter, Tony Elenis, President and CEO of the Ontario Hotel Motel Association, explains that the decision could provide a boost that the hospitality industry is sorely in need of.

"Despite its importance to the city's economy and communities, the sector continues to face significant financial pressures, including rising operating costs, labour shortages, and ongoing recovery challenges," Elenis writes.

Conversely, he explains, the relatively "low-risk measure" of extending alcohol sale hours during the games could "increase revenues, support jobs, and provide welcoming spaces for residents and visitors cheering on Team Canada."

The motion is set to be considered by City Council on Wednesday, Feb. 4.