CT consumers can gamble, buy marijuana on Christmas and New Year’s Day but can’t bring home booze

OG article by Dalton Zbierski

December 23, 2025

In Connecticut, state laws create distinct holiday restrictions across regulated industries. On Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year's Day (January 1), package stores, grocery stores selling alcohol, and manufacturers are prohibited from selling alcoholic beverages for off-premise consumption. Restaurants and bars may serve alcohol only for on-site enjoyment alongside food, with no take-out options permitted. The Department of Consumer Protection advises residents to stock up in advance and highlights local zoning ordinances that may impose additional limits.

By comparison, cannabis retailers face no such holiday closures or hour restrictions, allowing normal operations for adult-use and medical sales throughout these dates. Similarly, sports wagering and gambling activities remain fully available, including betting on any scheduled holiday games or events.

Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli issued reminders emphasizing responsible behavior during celebrations. He encouraged individuals to understand personal limits, designate sober drivers, avoid impaired operation of vehicles, and show consideration for surrounding communities. These contrasting rules reflect differing regulatory frameworks: alcohol sales have long-standing holiday prohibitions rooted in tradition and public policy, while newer industries like cannabis and online wagering operate without equivalent downtime mandates. Consumers planning gatherings must account for these variances when preparing beverages and entertainment options.