Can You Buy Beer on Sundays in Arkansas: What You Need to Know About Local Laws and Hours

Ever found yourself craving a cold beer on a Sunday afternoon in Arkansas? You’re not alone. Many people wonder about the rules surrounding alcohol sales on Sundays, especially when plans for a casual get-together come up.

This article clears up the confusion about whether you can buy beer on Sundays in the Natural State. You’ll discover the ins and outs of Arkansas’ laws and how they affect your weekend plans. With this information, you’ll be ready to enjoy your Sunday without any surprises.

Overview of Arkansas Beer Laws

Arkansas has specific laws regarding the sale of beer and other alcoholic beverages. You can find these regulations outlined in the state code, which governs where and when alcohol can be sold.

Days and Hours of Sale

• Beer Sales: You can purchase beer in Arkansas from Monday through Saturday without restrictions on hours. On Sunday, rules change, and only certain types of sales are allowed.
• Sunday Sales: On Sundays, beer sales in grocery stores and convenience stores occur only after 10 AM. Bars and restaurants can serve beer starting at 11 AM.

Types of Alcoholic Beverages

• Beer: The legal drinking age for beer in Arkansas is 21. Beer can be purchased in various establishments, including grocery stores, convenience stores, and specialized retailers.
• Wine and Spirits: Sales for wine and spirits follow different regulations, which also include Sunday restrictions.

Local Ordinances

• City Regulations: Some cities in Arkansas can pass their own alcohol-related laws. For example, a city might allow earlier Sunday beer sales or restrict sales altogether.
• Check Local Rules: Always verify local ordinances to understand specific regulations in your area.

• Retail Stores: You can buy beer in retail stores, but don’t forget Sunday sales begin at 10 AM.
• Bars and Restaurants: These establishments serve beer throughout the day, starting at 11 AM on Sundays.

Understanding these laws ensures that you can plan your weekend gatherings without any worries regarding beer availability.

Availability of Beer on Sundays

In Arkansas, beer availability on Sundays has specific regulations. Grocery and convenience stores can sell beer starting from 10 AM, while bars and restaurants begin serving at 11 AM. Understanding these regulations helps you plan your weekend activities.

Historical Context

Historically, Arkansas had stringent laws regarding alcohol sales on Sundays. No alcohol sales were allowed until recent changes in legislation led to more flexible rules. This shift aimed to accommodate changing social norms and consumer demand for weekend beverages.

Current Regulations

Current laws permit the following regarding beer sales on Sundays:

1. Grocery and Convenience Stores: Can sell beer after 10 AM.
2. Bars and Restaurants: May serve beer starting at 11 AM.
3. Local Ordinances: Some cities may impose stricter regulations, so check local laws for specific guidelines.

These regulations enable you to enjoy your Sunday plans while being aware of when and where beer is available.

Types of Beer Available

Arkansas offers a variety of beer options, catering to different tastes and preferences. You can find several types in both grocery stores and liquor stores, as well as from local breweries.

Grocery Stores vs. Liquor Stores

Grocery stores sell a range of beers, including popular brands and local favorites. These establishments usually stock light lagers, IPAs, stouts, and seasonal varieties. Look for brands like Budweiser, Miller, and regional craft beers in the beer aisle. In contrast, liquor stores often provide a more extensive selection, including rare and specialty beers. These may feature unique flavors, higher alcohol content, or craft options not commonly found in grocery stores.

Craft Breweries and Microbreweries

Arkansas boasts a flourishing craft beer scene, with numerous craft breweries and microbreweries producing distinct, high-quality beers. These breweries craft everything from pale ales to sour beers, often using local ingredients. Examples include:

• Stone’s Throw Brewing: Known for its diverse offerings, ranging from IPAs to stouts.
• Lost Forty Brewing: This brewery focuses on farm-to-table ingredients and unique flavors.
• Bearden Beer Company: Offers a selection of classic and seasonal beers, enhancing the local craft beer experience.

Visiting these breweries provides a chance to sample fresh, innovative beers that reflect Arkansas’s growing craft culture. Check their hours and availability for Sunday sales before planning your visit.

Exceptions and Local Variances

Arkansas’s alcohol laws can vary significantly based on local jurisdictions. It’s essential to be aware of these exceptions when planning your Sunday beer purchases.

Dry Counties

Some counties in Arkansas remain dry, meaning no alcohol sales, including beer. In these areas, you can’t purchase beer on Sundays—or any day of the week. For example, counties like Benton and Carroll are dry, while others may allow limited sales. Always check your county’s status before heading out.

Special Permits

Certain locations can sell alcohol on Sundays if they obtain special permits. These permits allow bars and restaurants to serve beer before the typical 11 AM start time. Remember, some establishments may close early or adjust their hours, so it’s wise to confirm the hours directly with your chosen venue. It’s also crucial to check if other local rules or events affect availability.

Impact on Consumers and Businesses

Arkansas’s alcohol sales laws impact both consumers and businesses. Understanding these regulations helps you navigate your weekend plans smoothly.

Consumers

• Limited Access: You can purchase beer on Sundays, but only from 10 AM at grocery and convenience stores. Bars and restaurants start selling at 11 AM. This restriction may affect your plans for brunch or afternoon gatherings.
• Local Variations: You might encounter differences based on your location. Some counties, like Benton and Carroll, remain dry, prohibiting any beer sales. Always check local rules to avoid surprises.
• Craft Beer Options: Arkansas boasts a vibrant craft beer scene. Local breweries offer unique brews, enhancing your options. You can explore local breweries like Stone’s Throw Brewing and Lost Forty Brewing for fresh selections.

• Sales Opportunities: Sunday beer sales can increase foot traffic for restaurants and bars. Understanding hours and local laws allows businesses to maximize sales during weekends.
• Permit Regulations: Some locations can sell alcohol earlier with special permits. This flexibility helps businesses cater to consumer demands, potentially boosting revenue.
• Market Trends: The growing interest in craft beer influences inventory decisions. Businesses can capitalize on this trend by stocking local favorites, attracting a loyal customer base.

Being aware of these factors prepares you to make informed choices about beer purchases and supports local businesses effectively.

Conclusion

You can definitely enjoy beer on Sundays in Arkansas but with a few caveats. Just remember the specific hours for purchasing and serving. Whether you’re planning a brunch or just relaxing at home it’s good to be aware of those local regulations. Exploring the craft beer scene can also lead you to some amazing local brews that you won’t want to miss. So grab your friends and make the most of your Sundays while keeping the laws in mind. Cheers to a great weekend ahead!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy beer on Sundays in Arkansas?

Yes, you can buy beer on Sundays in Arkansas, but there are restrictions. Grocery and convenience stores can sell beer starting at 10 AM, while bars and restaurants can serve beer beginning at 11 AM.

What is the legal drinking age for beer in Arkansas?

The legal drinking age for purchasing and consuming beer in Arkansas is 21 years old. It’s important to carry valid ID when buying beer to verify your age.

Are there dry counties in Arkansas?

Yes, some counties in Arkansas are dry, meaning they prohibit all alcohol sales, including beer. Examples include Benton and Carroll counties, so it’s essential to check local laws before planning a purchase.

What types of beer are available in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, grocery stores typically offer popular brands and local favorites, while liquor stores have a wider selection including rare and specialty beers. The state also boasts a diverse craft beer scene.

Can some places sell beer before the allowed hours?

Yes, certain locations can sell beer earlier than the usual times if they obtain special permits. This allows them to serve beer before the standard start times of 10 AM for stores and 11 AM for bars and restaurants.

How have Arkansas’s alcohol laws changed over time?

Arkansas once had strict laws against Sunday alcohol sales, but recent changes have made these rules more flexible to meet changing social norms and consumer demands, allowing limited Sunday sales of beer.

Why is it important to check local alcohol regulations?

Local ordinances can vary widely across Arkansas, leading to different rules about beer sales. Understanding these local regulations can prevent surprises and ensure that you can enjoy your Sunday activities without issues.

How does Arkansas’s craft beer scene impact local businesses?

The flourishing craft beer scene in Arkansas allows businesses to attract customers with unique options. Understanding alcohol sales laws can help businesses optimize sales, especially on Sundays when foot traffic increases.