If you’re in Texas and planning a late-night gathering, weekend party, or just want to understand local alcohol laws, one of the most common questions is: What time do they stop selling beer in Texas? Alcohol sale laws vary from state to state—and sometimes even by county but Texas has its own specific rules set by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Understanding these laws ensures you avoid surprises at the checkout counter.
Weekday Beer Sale Hours (Monday–Friday)
In most of Texas, grocery stores, convenience stores, and gas stations can sell beer and wine during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 a.m. to Midnight
This means you’re free to buy beer early in the morning before work (if needed) or late into the evening, up until 12:00 a.m.
Saturday Beer Sale Hours
Saturday hours are more relaxed. Beer sales continue for an extra hour:
- Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. (Sunday morning)
So, if you’re out late on a Saturday night, you can still pick up beer until 1:00 a.m.
Sunday Beer Sale Hours
Sunday laws in Texas are slightly different due to historical “blue laws,” which restrict early-morning alcohol sales. Under current TABC rules:
- Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to Midnight
However, this applies only if the purchase is part of a prepared food order between 10:00 a.m. and noon.
If you’re buying packaged beer (not paired with food), you must wait until:
- 12:00 p.m. (noon)
These rules apply to supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations.
What About Bars and Restaurants?
Bars, restaurants, and venues with on-premise consumption licenses follow slightly different laws:
- Alcohol can be served until 2:00 a.m. in many counties.
- Some counties require earlier last call times depending on local ordinances.
- Beer-to-go from bars or craft breweries can only be sold during standard retail hours (not during bar late-night service hours).
Dry and Partially Dry Counties
Texas still has dry and partially dry areas, meaning some counties limit or prohibit alcohol sales entirely.
- In dry counties, you may not be able to buy beer at all from stores.
- In partially dry counties, rules may allow beer but restrict wine or liquor sales.
If you’re traveling across Texas, always check local county laws to avoid confusion.
Holiday Restrictions
Unlike some states, Texas generally does not restrict beer sales on most holidays, but liquor stores are closed on:
- Sundays
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Day
However, these restrictions apply to liquor, not beer. Grocery stores and convenience stores can still sell beer on these days within normal hours.
Why These Laws Matter
Texas alcohol laws aim to balance public safety, community standards, and business interests. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, knowing the rules helps ensure you buy beer legally and avoid last-minute disappointments—especially on weekends or late at night.
