The Somerville Licensing Commission is extending the hours that bars can remain open during the FIFA World Cup games.

By Harry Kane

Soccer fans in Somerville will be happy to hear that they will be allowed to stay at bars or restaurants until the end of matches during the 2026 International FIFA World Cup event.

The Somerville Licensing Commission sanctioned a citywide initiative that will allow establishments with an alcoholic beverages license to opt in at no cost to extend operating hours from 9 a.m. until 3 a.m. during the World Cup.

“This is a privilege that the City of Somerville will grant,” said Licensing Commission Chair Joseph P. Lynch, adding that establishments can apply for a permit by contacting the City Clerk’s office with the dates they want operating hours extended.

The World Cup will be conducted in three North American countries – Canada, Mexico, and the United States – and will take place from June 11 through July 19.

Somerville Police Department Captain Diogo DeOliveira said he was excited for the World Cup, but the department wants the residents of Somerville to be safe. He relayed the concerns held by Chief Shumeane Benford from a public health and public safety perspective.

“An event of this magnitude will attract so many spectators, on foot, via motor vehicles; we would have to be prepared and have extra officers on staff,” said DeOliveira.

Lynch answered by explaining that there will be conditions and guidelines sent to approved applicants who opt in for a permit to extend operating hours. Last call for alcohol service will still be at 2 a.m.

“It is essential that all permit holders remain mindful of local regulations and community impact,” said Lynch.

Lynch explained that excessive noise, over-serving patrons, underage alcohol consumption, or loitering outside establishments will result in the revocation of the special permit.

Outdoor televisions or screens are not allowed to be used for broadcasting the matches, according to the Licensing Commission.

“If I get woken up at 2 a.m. by the Somerville Police Department, who says we have a little bit of an issue down here at XYZ, my determination will be, take the recommendation from the police department – shut it down,” said Lynch.

Lynch went on to say that the Licensing Commission is “not puritanical” and they are “giving the patrons a little extra time to 3:30, to then clear out in a very orderly way. This is a test for all of our licensees.”