How late can you buy alcohol in Illinois?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

In Illinois, the regulations regarding alcohol sales times can vary from county to county. It is important to note that while some counties may have specific hours for alcohol sales, there are also counties that allow 24/7 sales of alcohol. This means that you can purchase alcohol at any time of the day or night in these counties.

However, in most counties in Illinois, both off-premise and on-premise alcohol sales have certain time restrictions. These restrictions typically follow a similar pattern throughout the state.

From Monday to Friday, you can generally purchase alcohol from 7 AM until 2 AM the following day. This means that during the weekdays, you have a window of 19 hours to buy alcohol. This time frame allows for early morning purchases as well as late-night purchases, catering to the different needs and preferences of individuals.

On Saturdays, the sales hours are extended to accommodate the weekend crowd. You can typically purchase alcohol from 7 AM until 3 AM the following day. This extra hour provides some flexibility for those who may want to enjoy a late-night drink on a Saturday.

Sundays have slightly different alcohol sales hours compared to the rest of the week. On Sundays, you can buy alcohol from 8 AM until 2 AM the following day. This means that there is a one-hour delay in the start time compared to weekdays and Saturdays, but the closing time remains the same as weekdays.

It is worth noting that these are general guidelines, and there may be some exceptions or variations in certain counties or specific establishments. It is always a good idea to check with local authorities or the specific establishment you plan to visit to ensure you are aware of any specific alcohol sales hours that may apply.

Personally, I have found these alcohol sales times in Illinois to be quite reasonable and accommodating. Whether it’s a weekday evening or a weekend night out, the flexibility in the hours allows for convenience and enjoyment. I appreciate that there are options for early morning purchases as well, as sometimes plans for gatherings or events may require alcohol to be purchased in advance.

The alcohol sales times in Illinois vary per county, and while some counties have a 24/7 sales policy, most off-premise and on-premise alcohol sales are from 7 AM to 2 AM Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 3 AM on Saturday, and 8 AM to 2 AM on Sunday. These hours provide ample opportunities for individuals to purchase alcohol based on their needs and preferences.