Could Happy Hour Be Making a Comeback in Boston?

Happy Hour is a concept most of us know and love – discounted drinks, lively atmospheres, and the perfect way to wind down after a long day. But in Boston, this tradition vanished nearly 40 years ago. That’s right: Happy Hour, in the form of discounted drinks, is actually illegal in Massachusetts. This might come as a surprise, especially considering Boston’s reputation for a good drink scene, from historic pubs to trendy cocktail bars. So why was it banned, and what’s happening now to bring it back?

Why Was Happy Hour Banned in Massachusetts?

The Happy Hour ban dates back to the 1980s, when the state government decided to prohibit drink discounts as part of an effort to curb excessive drinking and reduce incidents of drunk driving. The idea was that cheaper drinks encouraged people to drink more, which could lead to unsafe behavior, both behind the wheel and in other ways. While this policy has helped promote safer drinking habits, it also limited restaurants and bars from offering some of the fun, festive Happy Hour promotions you see in other cities.

In the years since, there have been occasional pushes to bring Happy Hour back to Boston, especially as neighboring states continue to enjoy their after-work drink specials. But each time, the movement stalled – until now.

Could Happy Hour Be on the Rise Again?

This year, Massachusetts took a significant step forward on the path to possibly bringing back Happy Hour. The state legislature has considered a proposal that would allow cities and towns to decide their own Happy Hour regulations. This would mean that Boston, along with other towns, could potentially legalize drink specials again, creating new opportunities for the local restaurant and bar scene.

However, the journey isn’t quite complete yet. The proposal still needs approval from the Massachusetts House of Representatives. If it passes, we could see Boston’s Happy Hour landscape transformed, bringing new life to restaurants and bars while giving locals and tourists more reasons to enjoy the city’s vibrant social scene.

More Liquor Licenses for Boston

Another bit of encouraging news is that Boston is set to receive 225 new liquor licenses, which is no small feat given the city’s strict cap on them. Liquor licenses are a hot commodity in the Boston restaurant scene, and the lack of availability has been a challenge for many business owners, especially smaller and newer establishments. By issuing these additional licenses, the city hopes to foster a more diverse dining landscape, allowing more venues to open their doors and serve alcohol. This move is not only expected to boost the economy but also to give more local spots a chance to become community favorites.

Where the Locals Go

While discounted drinks may not be allowed in Boston, the Happy Hour culture is still alive and well! You will see tons of after work folks flocking to local bars for a wind-down drink or two. Boston is full of fantastic options to quench your thirst from local Irish pubs to elevated speakeasy experiences and everything in between. Here’s our list of local after work favorites in Boston the next time it’s 5 o’clock: Carrie Nation, The Bell in Hand, The Last Hurrah, Yvonne’s, Mariel, Ward 8, Wink + Nod, Bubble Bath, Backbar, and Shore Leave. 

The Next Best Thing: Bites of Boston’s Happy Hour Tour in the South End

As we wait for the legislature to finalize its decision, Bites of Boston has found a fantastic way to bring a Happy Hour experience to life without breaking any rules! If you’re craving that Happy Hour vibe, you can join us on our Boston happy hour tour in the beautiful South End neighborhood. This Boston walking tour captures the spirit of Happy Hour with a food and drink pairing experience at four distinct local spots. And while there may not be discounts on the drinks (no laws broken here!), there’s no shortage of fun, flavor, and community spirit.

Here’s what you can expect on the tour:

A Taste of Boston’s Food Scene:

The South End is known for its diverse, high-quality food spots, and this tour is a chance to taste some of its best offerings. You’ll enjoy local bites specially paired with small drink samples at each stop, giving you a feel for Boston’s culinary landscape. Bites of Boston prides itself on creating unique Boston food tours that introduce you to the city’s history and flavors in one unforgettable experience.

Perfect Timing

We start the tour at 4:30 pm, right in the Happy Hour sweet spot. As you stroll through the charming streets of the South End, you’ll get to unwind and soak in the early evening atmosphere with other tour guests.

A Social Experience

Whether you’re a Boston local or visiting for the first time, this tour is a great way to connect with others. Our small group setting encourages mingling, so by the end, you might find yourself with a few new friends to toast with!

Stories and Local Insight

Bites of Boston doesn’t just focus on food; we’re all about the stories behind the food. Our knowledgeable guides will share the history of each neighborhood stop, giving you insight into the chefs, ingredients, and Boston’s own unique Happy Hour culture.

While we wait for Happy Hour to make its official comeback in Boston, Bites of Boston’s Happy Hour Tour offers the perfect way to enjoy an evening out with good food, drink pairings, and the company of fellow food lovers. Join us on our “Happy Hour” stroll and discover a new side of the South End with this one-of-a-kind food tour in Boston Massachusetts – no discounts on the booze, but all the fun! You’ll also learn more about the neighborhood and the local businesses that make it so unique.

Will Boston finally bring back Happy Hour? Only time will tell. In the meantime, we’re raising a glass and celebrating the creativity of the city’s food and drink scene.