Colorado is known for its vibrant nightlife, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a thriving craft beer scene. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you might find yourself wondering if you can buy alcohol right now in Colorado. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the time of day, your location, and the type of establishment you’re looking to purchase from.
Understanding Colorado’s Liquor Laws
Before we dive into the specifics of buying alcohol in Colorado, it’s essential to understand the state’s liquor laws. Colorado has a complex set of regulations governing the sale of alcohol, which can vary depending on the type of establishment and the location.
In Colorado, there are several types of liquor licenses, each with its own set of rules and regulations. These licenses include:
- Hotel and Restaurant Licenses: These licenses allow establishments to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption.
- Liquor Store Licenses: These licenses allow establishments to sell alcohol for off-premises consumption.
- Beer and Wine Licenses: These licenses allow establishments to sell beer and wine for on-premises or off-premises consumption.
Liquor Store Hours in Colorado
If you’re looking to buy alcohol from a liquor store in Colorado, you’ll need to check the store’s hours of operation. In Colorado, liquor stores are allowed to operate from 8am to midnight, Monday through Saturday, and from 10am to midnight on Sundays. However, some liquor stores may choose to operate on reduced hours or close earlier, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the store’s website to confirm their hours.
Exceptions to Liquor Store Hours
There are some exceptions to liquor store hours in Colorado. For example, some liquor stores may be open on holidays, while others may be closed. Additionally, some cities or counties may have their own ordinances governing liquor store hours, so it’s essential to check with your local government to see if there are any specific regulations in your area.
Buying Alcohol from a Bar or Restaurant in Colorado
If you’re looking to buy alcohol from a bar or restaurant in Colorado, you’ll need to check the establishment’s hours of operation. In Colorado, bars and restaurants are allowed to serve alcohol from 7am to 2am, Monday through Friday, and from 7am to 2am on weekends. However, some establishments may choose to operate on reduced hours or close earlier, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the establishment’s website to confirm their hours.
Last Call in Colorado
In Colorado, last call is typically 30 minutes before closing time. This means that if a bar or restaurant is closing at 2am, last call will be at 1:30am. However, some establishments may have their own last call policies, so it’s always a good idea to check with your server or bartender to confirm.
Exceptions to Last Call
There are some exceptions to last call in Colorado. For example, some establishments may offer extended hours or late-night service, while others may have special permits that allow them to serve alcohol later than usual. Additionally, some cities or counties may have their own ordinances governing last call, so it’s essential to check with your local government to see if there are any specific regulations in your area.
Buying Alcohol from a Grocery Store in Colorado
In Colorado, grocery stores are allowed to sell beer and wine, but not liquor. If you’re looking to buy alcohol from a grocery store, you’ll need to check the store’s hours of operation. Most grocery stores in Colorado are open from 6am to 11pm, Monday through Sunday, but some stores may have extended hours or be open 24 hours.
Beer and Wine Sales in Grocery Stores
In Colorado, grocery stores are allowed to sell beer and wine, but not liquor. This means that you can buy beer and wine from a grocery store, but you won’t be able to buy liquor or spirits. If you’re looking to buy liquor, you’ll need to visit a liquor store or a bar or restaurant that serves liquor.
Exceptions to Beer and Wine Sales
There are some exceptions to beer and wine sales in grocery stores. For example, some grocery stores may not sell beer or wine, while others may have limited selections. Additionally, some cities or counties may have their own ordinances governing beer and wine sales, so it’s essential to check with your local government to see if there are any specific regulations in your area.
Online Alcohol Sales in Colorado
In Colorado, online alcohol sales are allowed, but there are some restrictions. If you’re looking to buy alcohol online, you’ll need to check with the retailer to see if they offer delivery or shipping to your area. Some retailers may only offer in-store pickup, while others may offer delivery or shipping statewide.
Online Liquor Sales
In Colorado, online liquor sales are allowed, but there are some restrictions. If you’re looking to buy liquor online, you’ll need to check with the retailer to see if they offer delivery or shipping to your area. Some retailers may only offer in-store pickup, while others may offer delivery or shipping statewide.
Exceptions to Online Liquor Sales
There are some exceptions to online liquor sales in Colorado. For example, some retailers may not offer online sales, while others may have limited selections. Additionally, some cities or counties may have their own ordinances governing online liquor sales, so it’s essential to check with your local government to see if there are any specific regulations in your area.
Delivery and Shipping of Alcohol in Colorado
In Colorado, delivery and shipping of alcohol are allowed, but there are some restrictions. If you’re looking to have alcohol delivered or shipped to your home, you’ll need to check with the retailer to see if they offer this service. Some retailers may only offer in-store pickup, while others may offer delivery or shipping statewide.
Delivery of Alcohol
In Colorado, delivery of alcohol is allowed, but there are some restrictions. If you’re looking to have alcohol delivered to your home, you’ll need to check with the retailer to see if they offer this service. Some retailers may only offer delivery in certain areas, while others may offer delivery statewide.
Exceptions to Delivery of Alcohol
There are some exceptions to delivery of alcohol in Colorado. For example, some retailers may not offer delivery, while others may have limited areas of delivery. Additionally, some cities or counties may have their own ordinances governing delivery of alcohol, so it’s essential to check with your local government to see if there are any specific regulations in your area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying alcohol in Colorado can be a bit complex, but understanding the state’s liquor laws and regulations can help. Whether you’re looking to buy alcohol from a liquor store, bar or restaurant, grocery store, or online retailer, it’s essential to check the establishment’s hours of operation and any specific regulations that may apply. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can ensure that you’re able to buy the alcohol you need, when you need it.
| Establishment | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|
| Liquor Stores | 8am to midnight, Monday through Saturday, and 10am to midnight on Sundays |
| Bars and Restaurants | 7am to 2am, Monday through Friday, and 7am to 2am on weekends |
| Grocery Stores | 6am to 11pm, Monday through Sunday |
Note: The hours of operation listed above are general and may vary depending on the specific establishment and location. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the establishment’s website to confirm their hours.
Can I buy alcohol right now in Colorado?
In Colorado, the laws regarding the sale of alcohol vary depending on the location and type of establishment. Generally, liquor stores, grocery stores, and supermarkets can sell alcohol during specific hours. However, it’s essential to note that these hours may differ depending on the county or municipality.
For instance, in some areas, liquor stores can operate from 8 am to 12 am, Monday through Saturday, and from 10 am to 12 am on Sundays. On the other hand, grocery stores and supermarkets usually have more restrictive hours, often from 8 am to 12 am, seven days a week. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the store’s website to confirm their hours before heading out to purchase alcohol.
What are the hours for buying alcohol in Colorado liquor stores?
In Colorado, liquor stores are allowed to sell alcohol during specific hours, which may vary depending on the location. Typically, liquor stores can operate from 8 am to 12 am, Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the hours are usually from 10 am to 12 am. However, it’s crucial to note that these hours may differ in certain counties or municipalities, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific store or local authorities for confirmation.
Some counties or cities in Colorado may have more restrictive hours or even prohibit the sale of alcohol on certain days. For example, some areas may not allow liquor stores to operate on Sundays or may have limited hours on holidays. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s recommended to call ahead or check the store’s website to confirm their hours before visiting.
Can I buy alcohol on Sundays in Colorado?
Yes, in Colorado, you can buy alcohol on Sundays, but the hours may be limited. Liquor stores typically operate from 10 am to 12 am on Sundays, while grocery stores and supermarkets usually have more restrictive hours. However, it’s essential to note that some counties or municipalities may have different laws or regulations regarding Sunday sales.
For instance, some areas may not allow liquor stores to operate on Sundays or may have limited hours. Additionally, some stores may choose not to open on Sundays or may have reduced hours. To confirm the hours, it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the store’s website before heading out to purchase alcohol on a Sunday.
Can I buy alcohol on holidays in Colorado?
In Colorado, the laws regarding the sale of alcohol on holidays vary depending on the type of holiday and the location. Generally, liquor stores, grocery stores, and supermarkets can sell alcohol on most holidays, but the hours may be limited. However, some counties or municipalities may have different laws or regulations regarding holiday sales.
For example, on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, or Thanksgiving Day, some liquor stores may choose not to open or may have reduced hours. On the other hand, some stores may operate normally on these days. To avoid any inconvenience, it’s recommended to call ahead or check the store’s website to confirm their hours before visiting on a holiday.
Can I buy beer and wine in grocery stores in Colorado?
Yes, in Colorado, you can buy beer and wine in grocery stores, but the selection may be limited. Grocery stores and supermarkets are allowed to sell beer and wine with an ABV of 3.2% or less. However, if you’re looking for full-strength beer or wine, you’ll need to visit a liquor store.
Some grocery stores may have a wider selection of beer and wine, including full-strength options, but this is not always the case. If you’re unsure about the selection, it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the store’s website before visiting. Additionally, some counties or municipalities may have different laws or regulations regarding the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores.
Can I buy liquor in grocery stores in Colorado?
No, in Colorado, you cannot buy liquor in grocery stores. According to state law, liquor stores are the only establishments allowed to sell full-strength liquor. Grocery stores and supermarkets are limited to selling beer and wine with an ABV of 3.2% or less.
If you’re looking to purchase liquor, you’ll need to visit a licensed liquor store. These stores typically have a wide selection of liquor, including spirits, liqueurs, and other types of liquor. Some liquor stores may also offer wine and beer, but this is not always the case. To confirm the selection, it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the store’s website before visiting.
Are there any exceptions to the alcohol sales laws in Colorado?
Yes, there are some exceptions to the alcohol sales laws in Colorado. For example, some counties or municipalities may have different laws or regulations regarding the sale of alcohol. Additionally, some establishments, such as restaurants or bars, may be allowed to sell alcohol during extended hours or on days when liquor stores are not permitted to operate.
Some areas in Colorado may also have special permits or licenses that allow for the sale of alcohol during specific events or festivals. For instance, some cities may allow for the sale of alcohol in public spaces during festivals or concerts. To confirm the laws and regulations in a specific area, it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or the establishment directly.