People will soon be able to walk around freely with drinks at festivals and businesses will now be able to sell all-inclusive vacation packages under Ontario's new relaxed liquor laws.
The changes take effect Wednesday, just in time for summer and festival season.
In a press release, the Ontario government said the relaxed laws "eliminate unnecessary barriers for special events, festivals and licensed establishments."
The purpose is to give people a more enjoyable experience at certain events, to attract more visitors and to give a boost to local economies with tourism dollars, the province said.
The province is also increasing the fines for violations of Ontario's liquor laws.
"These changes will provide additional flexibility, while strengthening enforcement," Attorney General Chris Bentley said in a press release.
Government officials proposed the changes just weeks ago.
Under the changes:
- People can walk around freely with drinks at festivals and events, instead of being restricted to a beer tent
- Restaurant and bar servers can carry drinks on public sidewalks to licensed areas such as patios
- Special events such as weddings or charity fundraisers can serve alcohol for an extra hour until 2 a.m.
- All-inclusive vacation packages can now be sold
- Business owners can give a complimentary drink to customers to celebrate a special occasion (a wedding anniversary, for example)
The changes are part of Ontario's Open Ontario Plan. The province consulted with more than 40 groups, including festival organizers, police agencies and social responsibility groups.
