The Irish have been eagerly waiting: the reopening of Irish pubs is effective starting today! From now on, anyone of legal drinking age can head to the pub to enjoy a pint. A major first since March 2020! But beware, this reopening comes with conditions: from today, pubs, restaurants, and cafés are only allowed to welcome guests on outdoor terraces (not indoors). Each customer must also be seated in a way that ensures a one-meter distance from other patrons.
Irish Pubs Ready to Reconnect with Tradition
The Pub, a Social Lifeline in Ireland That Was on the Brink of Suffocation
Patience was required. A lot of patience. But this time it’s for real: Irish pubs can now welcome customers again, in joy and good spirits. This is a crucial step for the morale of the Irish, who are deeply attached to their traditions.
Let’s remember: the Irish pub is one of the country’s cherished institutions. The Irish habitually visit these venues almost daily, whether to meet friends and family, enjoy a drink, listen to live music, or watch a sports match.
It took nearly 14 months to reconnect with these habits. And now, all Irish pubs are affected. All are allowed to reopen, provided they have outdoor seating capacity (in other words, a terrace).
This is an opportunity to revive a struggling economy, where thousands of pub owners faced serious financial difficulties. Fortunately, government aid combined with initiatives led by Guinness brewery helped support the sector during the crisis.
The icing on the cake: if all goes well, Irish pubs should be able to welcome guests indoors starting July 5.
These relaxations are part of a roadmap previously set by the government. The Irish state is preparing to reopen to international tourism from July 19, and has already reopened hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts across the country.
Great news on the horizon!
