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Businesses can be open from 9 a.m. to 3 a.m. under the temporary policy.
Fans watch a Champion league soccer match between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain at a Philadelphia sports bar.
AP Photo/Tassanee Vejpongsa
Late-night World Cup matches could mean late nights out in Somerville under a new city policy.
Somerville’s licensed bars, cafes, and restaurants will be allowed to extend their operating hours during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, running from June 11 through July 19, the city announced Friday in a press release.
Under the temporary policy, businesses may serve alcohol from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. and remain open until 3 a.m. Only businesses with required licenses may serve alcohol.
Somerville officials said the local changes are intended to provide more opportunities for residents to gather and watch matches throughout the tournament.
“There’s always a hum of energy in the air in Somerville during the World Cup, and with the tournament taking place so close to home, that excitement is only going to grow,” Mayor Jake Wilson said. “We want to make sure our local businesses and community are a part of it.”
Businesses interested in extending their hours must submit a request to the city in advance. There is no limit on the number of dates businesses may request, according to the press release.
“By making it easier to request extended operating hours, we’re helping create more places for people to gather, cheer, commiserate, and enjoy the tournament together,” Wilson said.
The city is also planning a series of World Cup-related events, including public watch parties and SomerCup 2026, a community soccer tournament scheduled for July.
Co-hosted by the Somerville Recreation and Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs, the games will take place at Dilboy Stadium, and registration is open through June 26.
“Growing up in Cameroon, the World Cup was more than a tournament. It was a source of pride, joy, and national unity,” Somerville Councilor-At-Large Will Mbah said. “Today as an elected official, I see those same values reflected in our communities — people from every background coming together around a common purpose.”
Somerville’s announcement comes as state lawmakers are also considering broader changes to alcohol regulations during the World Cup.
The Massachusetts House of Representatives unanimously passed legislation Thursday that would temporarily allow bars and restaurants to serve alcohol until 3 a.m. and permit public drinking in designated outdoor districts. The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.
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