The Alcohol Control Board has announced temporary extensions to the operating hours for alcohol sales at nightclubs and bars during the Christmas and New Year period. 

This adjustment, aimed at accommodating the festive season, was outlined in a recent notice issued by the Ministry of Customs and Revenue, which was published on its website and signed by the Chairman of the Alcohol Control Board.

The extended hours will apply to Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. 

On Christmas Eve, alcohol distribution and sales at nightclubs and bars will be permitted from 10 am until 2 am on Christmas Day, Wednesday 25 December. 

This means partygoers in Samoa can enjoy two extra hours of celebration with loved ones, thanks to the temporary extension on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

Similarly, the same hours will be in effect for New Year's Eve on Tuesday 31 December. On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the sales hours will return to their usual schedule.

Importantly, the notice clarifies that these temporary hours only apply to nightclubs and bars. 

Restaurants and hotels operating under a Food and Beverage license, as well as retail stores with a Retail license, will continue to follow their regular operating hours without any change.

The Ministry also reminded businesses that they must comply with these temporary hours, warning that non-compliance could result in penalties or the suspension of operating licenses. “All nightclubs and bars are required to strictly adhere to these hours,” the notice emphasised.

This move is expected to provide a more flexible and festive atmosphere for nightlife during the busy holiday season, while ensuring that establishments operate within the legal framework set by the Alcohol Control Board.