As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with detailed information about alcohol sales times in Illinois. Please note that the alcohol sales regulations can differ from county to county, so it is always a good idea to double-check the specific regulations in your area.
In Illinois, the times during which you can purchase liquor, wine, or beer can vary. Some counties in Illinois have adopted a 24/7 alcohol sales policy, meaning you can buy alcohol at any time of the day or night. This is especially true for larger cities like Chicago, where you can find convenience stores and liquor shops that are open 24 hours.
However, in most counties, the general alcohol sales hours are as follows:
1. Monday to Friday: Alcohol can be sold from 7 AM to 2 AM the next day. This means that you can buy alcohol starting in the morning at 7 AM until 2 AM on the following day. These hours apply to both off-premise sales (liquor stores, supermarkets) and on-premise sales (bars, restaurants).
2. Saturday: The alcohol sales hours are extended on Saturdays. You can purchase alcohol from 7 AM to 3 AM the next day. This gives you an extra hour to buy alcohol compared to weekdays.
3. Sunday: On Sundays, the alcohol sales hours start a bit later. You can buy alcohol from 8 AM to 2 AM the next day. This is due to the regulations aimed at restricting early Sunday morning alcohol sales.
It is worth mentioning that these are the general guidelines, and some counties may have different regulations. Additionally, local municipalities and establishments may have their own restrictions or rules regarding the sale of alcohol, so it is always important to check with the specific location you intend to purchase from.
Personally, I have encountered situations where I needed to buy alcohol early in the morning, such as when I was hosting a brunch event or preparing for a special occasion. In such cases, it is essential to plan ahead and ensure you are aware of the alcohol sales hours in your area. It can be frustrating to find out that you cannot purchase alcohol at your desired time, so it's always better to be informed.
To summarize, in most counties in Illinois, you can buy liquor, wine, or beer from 7 AM to 2 AM Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 3 AM on Saturday, and 8 AM to 2 AM on Sunday. However, it is crucial to check the specific regulations in your county or municipality, as well as any additional restrictions imposed by local establishments. Cheers!