The time at which alcohol sales stop varies significantly depending on the country, state, or local jurisdiction.
- In many U.S. states, liquor stores and other retailers often stop selling alcohol between 10 PM and 2 AM, but some places allow sales up to 3 AM or even 24 hours in some cities/counties. For example, in Florida, alcohol sales are generally prohibited between midnight and 7 AM unless local exceptions apply, and in New Jersey liquor stores often close around 10 PM but some cities can set their own hours.
- In Canada, licensed establishments typically sell alcohol from 9 AM to 2 AM, with some exceptions on holidays like New Year's Eve when sales can extend to 3 AM.
- Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Finland have stricter rules. Sweden's state-run alcohol shops (Systembolaget) generally operate 10 AM to 6 PM on weekdays and close early on weekends and are closed Sundays. Finnish supermarkets can sell beer, wine, and cider up to 8% alcohol content during regular store hours due to recent law changes.
- In Europe, many places have store hours and local laws that restrict alcohol sales in grocery stores after a certain evening hour, e.g., 8 or 9 PM.
So, alcohol sales stop at times ranging from as early as 6 or 8 PM in some European countries to as late as 2 or 3 AM in many parts of North America, depending on local legal regulations and store types.
