Happy hours have been illegal in Ireland since 2003, as part of an initiative to reduce binge drinking and create a more family-friendly environment in pubs. The law also bans children under 18 from entering licensed premises without a parent or guardian.
Most people are familiar with the “happy hour” specials in bars and restaurants, where alcoholic beverages are temporarily discounted, usually after the workday ends. And on St. Patrick’s Day, many American bars try to cash in on the festivities by offering themed happy hours. So it might surprise you to know that in Ireland, even on St. Patrick’s Day, happy hours have been illegal since 2003. As part of an initiative to reduce binge drinking and create a more family-friendly environment in pubs, the Irish government has enacted banning any promotional activity in bars and pubs – such as two-for-one “happy hour” prices – that could encourage people to drink excessively.
Cheers:
While St. Patrick’s Day is certainly a time of revelry in Ireland – it’s a public holiday – many people mainly observe the holiday by attending mass in honor of Ireland’s patron saint.
Ireland’s Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 also banned children and adolescents under the age of 18 from entering licensed premises without a parent or guardian. Establishments that violate the law are liable to a fine of €1,500 ($1,595 USD).
The specifics of the law mean that while bars and pubs cannot lower the price of alcoholic beverages at a certain time of day, they can still raise their prices.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
