Seattle Tests Easier Alc Rules for World Cup

Getting ready for the World Cup, the Washington State Legislature approved rules allowing people to roam more freely with drinks at several World Cup celebrations, rather than being confined to roped off beer gardens.

It also allows restaurants to band together to provide shared, family friendly outdoor spaces without some of the typical restrictions, such as strict fencing and staffing requirements.

The result: At Pike Place Market, people are able to carry alcoholic drinks along the market's main street, Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day. The law is also permitting people to drink beer and wine in a wider area, such as throughout the Armory Building on some match days as well as all of Pier 62. Pacific Place has also expanded alcohol service at its World Cup fan fest.

Rep. Julia Reed (D) said the goal is to create "a more welcoming environment.".

It's not just for Pike Place, officials say, noting they are encouraging neighboring breweries to create shared outdoor spaces for dining and drinking and encouraging restaurants to expand outdoor dining.

The new law runs through 2027, when the legislature can review it and decide whether to make it permanent.