Can You Take Alcohol To-Go in Texas? Let's Dive In!

Hey there, Texas liquor lovers! Ever found yourself wondering, "Can you take alcohol to-go in Texas?" Well, you're in the right place. We're gonna spill the beans on Texas's alcohol-to-go laws, so you can enjoy your favorite drinks responsibly, whether you're at home, on the go, or out and about. Let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and can you take alcohol to-go in texas.

The Big Change: Alcohol-To-Go During COVID-19

You might have noticed that many restaurants and bars in Texas started offering alcohol to-go during the COVID-19 pandemic. But can you still take your favorite drinks home now that things are opening up? Let's find out!

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Texas Governor Greg Abbott temporarily allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages to-go. This included mixed drinks, not just beer and wine. The rule was initially set to expire on May 1, 2020, but it was extended multiple times and eventually made permanent on September 1, 2021.

So, the short answer is yes, you can still take alcohol to-go in Texas, even after the pandemic restrictions have lifted. But there are some rules you need to know.

So, What's Allowed and What's Not?

Now that we know alcohol to-go is here to stay, let's talk about what you can and can't take home from your favorite Texas eateries.

Mixed Drinks, Beer, and Wine: Oh My!

Good news, Texas! You can take mixed drinks, beer, and wine to-go from licensed establishments. But there are a few catches.

1. 1. Mixed Drinks: You can take mixed drinks to-go, but they must be in a sealed container and can't exceed 24 ounces in size. The container must also be clearly labeled as containing alcohol.
2. 2. Beer and Wine: You can take beer and wine to-go, but they must also be in sealed containers. Beer can be in a growler or other sealed container, while wine must be in a factory-sealed bottle or a sealed, unopened container provided by the establishment.

What's Off the Table

While Texas has relaxed its alcohol-to-go laws, there are still some things you can't take home.

1. 1. Liquor by the Drink: You can't take liquor by the drink to-go. This includes shots and straight pours of liquor. You can only take mixed drinks that contain liquor, as long as they follow the rules above.
2. 2. Happy Hour Deals: While you can take alcohol to-go, you can't take advantage of happy hour deals to-go. Establishments can't offer discounted prices on to-go alcoholic beverages.

How Much Can You Take Home?

So, how much alcohol can you take home from your favorite Texas spots? Let's break it down.

1. 1. Per Person: You can take home up to two mixed drinks, one case of beer (equivalent to 24 twelve-ounce cans or bottles), or one case of wine (equivalent to 12 seventy-five milliliter bottles) per person, per day.
2. 2. Per Purchase: You can also take home up to 24 ounces of mixed drinks in sealed containers per purchase, regardless of the number of people in your party.

Responsible Drinking: It's On You

While Texas has relaxed its alcohol-to-go laws, it's still important to drink responsibly. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

1. 1. Don't Drink and Drive: Even if you're taking your drinks to-go, it's still against the law to drink and drive. Make sure you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service to get home safely.
2. 2. Don't Overbuy: Just because you can take home a case of beer or wine doesn't mean you should. Make sure you're only taking home what you can responsibly consume.
3. 3. Keep It Classy: While it's great that you can take alcohol to-go, that doesn't mean you should be drinking and driving or causing a disturbance. Be respectful of others and follow the rules.

Texas Alcohol-To-Go: The Bottom Line

So, there you have it, folks! Texas's alcohol-to-go laws might seem a bit complicated, but as long as you follow the rules, you can enjoy your favorite drinks responsibly, whether you're at home, on the go, or out and about.

Remember, while Texas has relaxed its alcohol-to-go laws, it's still important to drink responsibly. Don't drink and drive, don't overbuy, and always be respectful of others.

Cheers, Texas! Here's to enjoying your favorite drinks, wherever you are.

Stay informed and stay safe, y'all!