As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ontarians will have more time and convenience to purchase beverages and return empty containers, with The Beer Store and LCBO announcing extended operating hours at select locations throughout the tournament.
Beginning June 11 and continuing until July 19, The Beer Store will open 19 locations across Ontario one hour earlier, welcoming customers from 9 a.m. daily. The temporary change is designed to accommodate increased demand expected during the world’s largest sporting event, which Canada is co-hosting alongside the United States and Mexico.
The move comes as thousands of soccer fans prepare to gather with family and friends to celebrate and watch matches, including several games taking place in Toronto. Canada’s opening match in Toronto is scheduled for June 12, adding to the excitement surrounding the tournament.
In Brampton, the Beer Store location at 80 Peel Centre Drive is among the stores participating in the extended-hours program. Other locations include stores in Hamilton, London, Ottawa, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Scarborough, Toronto, Kanata, Nepean, and East Gwillimbury.
The extended hours will also make it easier for customers to return empty alcohol containers and collect deposit refunds. Beer Store officials say the initiative is intended to provide greater convenience during one of the busiest sporting events of the year.
The LCBO is also joining the World Cup celebrations by extending operating hours at 27 locations in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa. From June 11 to July 19, participating stores will operate from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.
In addition, the Province of Ontario has approved temporary extensions to alcohol service hours at participating bars and restaurants. During the World Cup, licensed establishments in approved areas will be permitted to serve alcohol until 4 a.m., extending the usual 2 a.m. last call and allowing fans additional time to celebrate major matches.
The Beer Store is also expanding its retail footprint with two new Toronto-area locations scheduled to open before Canada Day. The new stores, located in North York and Scarborough, will provide additional retail and empty-container return services for customers.
With Canada hosting the FIFA World Cup for the first time in history, businesses and retailers across Ontario are preparing for an influx of visitors and heightened consumer activity. The extended hours are expected to help fans enjoy the tournament while ensuring greater access to retail and recycling services throughout the month-long global sporting spectacle.