No spirits on Christmas? Learn the law about buying holiday alcohol on the MS Coast
If you’re looking to eat, drink and be merry on Christmas in Mississippi, you may have to settle for two out of three.
Mississippi is one of 21 states in the U.S. that restrict alcohol sales on Christmas, and the ban has historical roots tied to the state’s “blue laws” which regulate and restrict activities on Sundays and holidays.
The intent behind these laws was to maintain the sanctity of these days by limiting commercial activities, including the sale of alcohol. The adherence to the laws, however, are part of a broader historical context about the prohibition of alcohol. In fact, Mississippi maintained the official federal prohibition longer than any other state, not repealing it until 1966.
The letter of the law
There are no exceptions to the restrictions, but there are some very specific guidelines:
Mississippi bans alcohol sales on Sunday and Christmas Day
Sales of alcoholic drinks with an alcohol by weight of 5+ are restricted to designated “package stores.”
Liquor (or package) stores must be closed on Christmas Day.
The ban is comprehensive, with no exceptions for bars, restaurants, or other establishments covers both off-premise and on-premise sales.
The penalties for buying alcohol on Christmas
While there are few penalties dedicated solely to the sales on Christmas, the state’s broader policy still applies.
- Suspension or revocation of alcohol permits for businesses
- Fines and imprisonment for repeat offenders
The ways around the laws
While you cannot purchase hard liquor, you are not completely out of luck.
- Beer and light wine under 5% ABW can be sold in grocery stores on Christmas Day.
- There are no restrictions applied on Christmas Eve, so you can stock up.
- Depending on where you live, you could pop over to a neighboring state with lesser restrictive laws.
It bears noting that the alcohol laws in the state are among the most complex in the U.S., and you should always check your local ordinances to make sure you are in compliance with the law.
This story was originally published November 26, 2024 at 6:00 AM.
