For the first time in state history, Colorado liquor stores opened their doors on Christmas Day, following a recent legislative shift. Governor Jared Polis inked a bill into law earlier this year ensuring that the longstanding prohibition on Christmas Day alcohol sales would be lifted. According to 9News, the move was part of a broader reform that took root during the pandemic when to-go alcohol purchases temporarily buoyed bars and restaurants through restrictive periods.
Denver-based Argonaut Wine & Liquor, along with many other local shops, embraced the change. While some may have preferred the day off to spend with family, others were content to work, earning time-and-a-half for their holiday shifts, 9News reported. The alterations in the state's law reflect an economy adapting to evolving consumer demands and the necessity to bolster businesses amidst recent challenges.
Customer response has been noticeably mixed but generally positive. Some expressed surprise at seeing stores operate on a day traditionally reserved for family time, while others showed gratitude. Ram Ghimire, owner of Federal Liquors, opened his doors at 8:30 a.m. on Christmas Day. He admitted to Denver7, "It's busy actually, and I'm happy with that." Despite his initial ambivalence, Ghimire has taken the opportunity to serve his community on the holiday.
This flexibility also brought familial warmth into the workplace for some. "[Customers] say like, ‘Hey man, you are here today? You're supposed to stay at home!’" Ghimire said, as per Denver7. An employee named Welde-Yohannes reflected on her Christmas workday, saying, “But I did my goal. I'm happy to serve them.” The new law has undeniably reshaped the holiday experience for store owners and customers alike, introducing a new dynamic to Colorado's Christmas season.
While the shift in policy has been significant for both businesses and consumers, it is a continuation of the trend toward liberalizing liquor laws in the state. As outlined by FOX21 News, emergency legislation during the pandemic paved the path, allowing restaurants to sell to-go alcohol which acted as a lifeline for many during the lockdowns. The holiday expansion of sales rights for brick-and-mortar liquor retailers marks another step in Colorado's evolving relationship with alcohol regulation.
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