Will liquor stores be open on July 4th? State restrictions, hours, and more explored

This July 4th, many Americans will be firing up the grill, lighting sparklers, and raising a glass to their country's independence, but will they be able to grab that picnic-proof bottle of bourbon beforehand? With Independence Day celebrations in full swing and state laws varying widely, knowing which liquor stores are open, when, and under what limits can save a last-minute run later in the day, when all you really want to do is begin the party celebrations.

While many retailers stick to normal holiday hours, others operate under tighter rules or close completely. Let’s unpack the landscape really quickly so you can plan your holiday beverage run with confidence!

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July 4th liquor store openings, closures and timing rules

If you’re wondering whether liquor stores will be open on July 4th, the answer across much of the country is yes, but with caveats. Here's the deep dive, state by state.

 

Most states: Open with regular holiday or adjusted hours.

Liquor stores in most U.S. states, whether independent or part of large retail chains, will be remaining open this July 4th. These stores tend to follow standard retail holiday schedules, which means they'll open early in the morning and close by mid-evening. Supermarkets and convenience stores that sell beer and wine are typically available too, but beware—local rules can tweak times slightly.

Texas: Sunday-style closures don’t apply

In Texas, liquor store restrictions are surprisingly straightforward: stores are closed only on Sundays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Independence Day isn’t on that list, so liquor stores will be open as usual—likely from around 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.—although it’s wise to double-check your local spot.

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Utah: full closure at state-run agencies

Utah’s tight grip on liquor access means DABS state stores will be closed entirely on July 4th. According to the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services, “All state stores will be closed Friday, July 4, 2025, for the Independence Day holiday.” If you live in Utah, hit up grocery or convenience stores for 5 percent beer instead—or plan accordingly.

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Pennsylvania: closing at 5 p.m. sharp

Pennsylvania’s Fine Wine & Good Spirits outlets observe July 4th but with shortened hours. These state-run stores will open as usual and then close by 5 p.m. Magistrates recommend checking individual locations, but the general rule stands.

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Massachusetts (and similar blue-law states): open but shortened hours

In Massachusetts, blue laws don’t shut liquor stores on July 4, but hours may be trimmed. For instance, Market Basket liquor outlets and other big chains stay open regular hours, though malls and associated outlets may close around 6–8 p.m.

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Other states: check local ordinances.

Alcohol laws vary dramatically by state and even by county. In Kansas, for example, Independence Day is listed as a no-sales holiday—unless a county has opted out. In Missouri, off-site liquor sales must cease well before midnight, typically around 1:30 a.m. nightly. Indiana and many Midwest states follow relaxed Sunday-style hours, allowing afternoon sales on weekends, but not on July 4.

When planning your holiday drink run, remember that states with government-run outlets (think Utah or Pennsylvania) may have stricter schedules or outright closures, so be sure to quickly confirm their hours. In contrast, major retail chains, grocery liquor aisles, and independent bottle shops tend to stay open, albeit often on a shortened timetable.

Be aware, too, that local ordinances—whether set by city halls, county boards, or shopping center management—can force early shutdowns (if your neighborhood store shutters at 6 p.m., you’ll want to leave plenty of buffer). Above all, don’t assume tomorrow will mirror today: check official state travel sites or liquor control boards (for example, Utah’s DABS or Pennsylvania’s LCB) for holiday schedules.

Pennsylvania’s liquor board, for instance, confirms that outlets “will open at their normally scheduled start time and close by 5 p.m.,” while Utah’s agency warns that all state stores remain closed on July 4, so stock up in advance.