PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (WHP) — Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a new bill into law Friday that will allow Philadelphia bars to stay open as long as 4 a.m. during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations this summer.
The extended hours will begin June 11 and last until July 20, according to the bill.
Interested vendors must submit an application for a “Philadelphia 250” permit to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, the bill said.
The new bill is part of Pennsylvania’s efforts to be one of the best places for both local and international fans ahead of the World Cup.
On Thursday, Shapiro announced three official community watch parties — known as “Fan Zones” — that will be hosted in Reading, Pittsburgh and Scranton.
READ MORE | FIFA World Cup fan zones announced in 3 Pennsylvania cities
Six matches are scheduled to be played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia from June 11 to July 19, including a round of 16 match on July 4.
Philadelphia was selected as one of 16 host cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico for this year’s World Cup. Venue and ticket information can be found here.