Can You Buy Alcohol on Memorial Day? (in 2023)

Most people associate Memorial Day with backyard BBQs or frolicking at the beach, but this holiday means much more to those who really understand it.

Memorial Day is a time to mourn fallen heroes but also to celebrate them. Now, if you’re going to be needing alcohol on Memorial Day, needless to say, it’s wiser to buy it beforehand.

But perhaps you run out of liquor, or you have a last-minute event. Can you buy alcohol on Memorial Day?

Yes and no, it depends. The laws regarding the sale of alcohol on Memorial Day vary by state. In some states, alcohol sales may be restricted on Memorial Day and other state holidays. In other states, there may be no restrictions. It is best to check with your local laws for specific information about alcohol sales on Memorial Day.

Let’s talk about buying alcohol on or before Memorial Day.

Can You Buy Alcohol on Memorial Day 2023?

Although some liquor stores aren’t regulated by the state, most are. Check your local laws to determine whether there are any restrictions on alcohol sales on Memorial Day.

States like Massachusetts doesn’t permit the sale of alcohol on Memorial Day, at least up until the time of writing. States like Alabama and Florida prohibit sales during the early hours of the day and permit them for the rest of the day, and it varies by locality in States like Maryland.

Alcohol sale on Memorial Day is permitted in most states, but it’s important to check the restrictions in your state and be prepared for anything.

We have tried our best to do the research for you and gather information about the alcohol-selling laws in different states in the table below.

Saying it again for emphasis, the information is correct at the time of writing this article, but it’s always recommended to double-check with your local authorities for any updates or changes.

Again, please double-check with your local authorities for any updates or changes to these laws.

Buy Your Alcohol Beforehand

Buying your alcohol before Memorial Day is better for several reasons.

First, it allows you to avoid the rush of people who may be buying alcohol on the day. Second, it allows you to save money since retailers often discount alcoholic beverages in advance of a holiday.

Finally, it allows you to avoid any potential restrictions on alcohol sales that may take effect on Memorial Day.

Buy From Grocery Stores

Although state liquor stores might be closed on Memorial Day, most big retailers, Walmart, Target, and other big names will operate, maybe except Costco.

Chain stores and restaurants will also have their doors open on Memorial Day, so you have options. If they don’t let you buy drinks to go, you can move your family into one of the booths and continue the festivity. Again, you have to check for the regulations governing stores around you.

Remember to Drink Responsibly

Don’t overdo it. Remember, one beer, two beers, three beers, floor. If you have to think about how many beers you’ve had, you’ve had too many.

Eat while drinking to slow the rate at which you get drunk and alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks– this will help you stay hydrated and prevent over-intoxication.

Understanding Memorial Day

Here’s a short section dedicated to learning all about this holiday and how it originated.

What Is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the men and women who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. It is celebrated annually on the last Monday of May.

Originally known as Decoration Day, this holiday has been around for about 150 years. Some people see Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer because the weather is getting warmer, and schools and colleges are getting ready for the summer holiday.

How Did This Holiday Start?

The origins of Memorial Day can be traced back to the American Civil War when families of fallen soldiers began decorating the graves of the dead with flowers and flags. This practice of honoring the dead was soon adopted by communities nationwide, and Decoration Day was born.

On May 5, 1868, General Logan issued General Order No. 11, officially calling for Decoration Day, a national holiday, and ordering that the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers in cemeteries across the country be decorated with flowers.

He called for a day of “strictly solemn and reverent commemoration” and urged Americans to “gather around their sacred dead, strewing with flowers the graves of heroes who died for their country.” May 30, 1868, was later chosen as decoration day.

By the 20th century, Memorial Day had become a national holiday and was observed in all 50 states. The holiday was changed to the last Monday in May in 1971, and it was given its current name, Memorial Day, in 1967.

On Memorial Day, Americans take time to remember and honor those who have sacrificed their lives in service to their country.

Flags are flown at half and full staff, parades and memorial services are held, people wear the red poppy flower, a tradition that stemmed from a world war 1 poem, and many Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects.

Let’s not forget the barbeque and beach parties people throw nationwide. Seeing as the long weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, it’s become a tradition to get together with family and friends to celebrate the revered holiday.

Memorial Day has become a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude, with many Americans taking the opportunity to remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Final Thoughts

It’s unlikely you’d have to buy alcohol on Memorial Day unless you find yourself in a pickle. But if you have to, before leaving the house, it would be wise to call your local liquor store to find out whether they sell alcohol on this day or not. Stay safe and always drink responsibly.