The Manitoba government is testing out the province’s tweaked liquor rules for when the Juno Awards are hosted in Winnipeg March 24-30.
A special permit and extended operating hours will allow establishments to provide further entertainment opportunities across the province to celebrate the event.
“Restaurants are a dynamic part of the hospitality industry in Manitoba and we welcome this chance to participate directly in major musical events like the Junos week and the Year of Music,” said Scott Jocelyn, executive director of the Manitoba Restaurant and Foodservices Association.
During the week of the Junos, dining rooms, lounges and hotel beverage rooms can apply to operate as cabaret live entertainment venues.
What does that mean?
- Two hours of live musical entertainment by paid performers may be provided each evening (including DJs mixing original music)
- Food service is not required with liquor service but must be available
- The special permit will be effective beginning at 8 p.m. each evening
- The special permits will be offered free of charge
In addition, during Junos week, all licensees, including existing cabarets and legions, will have the option to serve liquor until 3 a.m. and beer vendors will be permitted to sell until 3:30 a.m. Licensees do not need to apply to operate for these extended hours.
It is expected the new Liquor and Gaming Control Act will be proclaimed into law on April 1.
