Alcohol laws in the United States vary widely, and Georgia is no exception. If you’re planning a weekend gathering, picking up drinks for a celebration, or simply want to stay within legal boundaries, it’s important to understand when alcohol sales stop in the state. Georgia’s laws regulate beer, wine, and liquor sales differently, and local counties can set their own rules within state guidelines. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you need to know.
Retail Store Alcohol Sale Hours (Beer & Wine)
Beer and wine are sold in grocery stores, convenience stores, and package shops across Georgia. State law generally allows these stores to sell beer and wine during the following hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 7:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
However, Georgia allows cities and counties to set their own alcohol sale hours, so times may vary slightly. Many counties follow the standard schedule, but some may permit earlier Sunday sales if voters have approved it through a referendum.
Liquor Store Hours (Package Stores)
Liquor sales are more strictly regulated than beer and wine. In Georgia, liquor is only sold through licensed package stores, and these stores follow different rules:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
- Sunday: Liquor store sales depend on local law—many counties allow liquor sales after 12:30 p.m., while others prohibit it entirely.
Even in areas where Sunday liquor sales are legal, there may be limited hours. It’s always best to check local county guidelines, especially if you’re traveling.
Bars and Restaurants Alcohol Service Hours
Bars, restaurants, and venues licensed for on-premise consumption have separate regulations. In most parts of Georgia:
- Alcohol can be served until 2:00 a.m.
- Some cities allow service until 2:30 a.m., depending on local ordinances.
- Sunday service typically begins at 12:30 p.m.
A notable example is Atlanta, where many establishments serve alcohol until 2:30 a.m., and some areas with special entertainment districts can serve even later.
Sunday Alcohol Laws (Blue Laws)
Sunday alcohol restrictions—often called “blue laws”—have historically been strict in Georgia. In recent years, the state has loosened many of these rules. Thanks to the “Brunch Bill,” local governments can now allow Sunday on-premise alcohol sales to begin as early as:
- 11:00 a.m.
Many cities, including Atlanta and Savannah, have adopted this rule for bars and restaurants, allowing earlier Sunday brunch drinks like mimosas and cocktails.
Holiday Restrictions
Georgia does not prohibit alcohol sales on most holidays. Liquor stores may choose to close on certain days, but there are no statewide bans on beer, wine, or liquor sales during holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, or New Year’s Eve. However, each store has the right to set its own hours.
Why These Rules Matter
Georgia’s alcohol laws balance community standards, public safety, and consumer convenience. Because many rules are determined at the local level, understanding city or county-specific regulations can prevent last-minute surprises—especially on weekends or holidays.
