Regina bars and hockey fans begin planning for Canada’s run at Olympic glory
Regina bar owners are so anxious for the 2026 Winter Olympics that some have begun planning to open at 7 a.m. to accommodate crazed Canadian hockey fans for beer and breakfast.
Donny Markewich, district manager at the Canadian Brewhouse in Regina, realizes the Olympics will draw huge crowds due to the participation of NHL players for the first time since 2014.
“In previous years we have opened for the medal games,” said Markewich. “As for the other sports, it will come down to our customer base and their demand.”
In the past, Canadians have been quick to gather at their favourite drinking spots to cheer on the national teams in their quest for gold. However, with the gold medal game being scheduled for 7:10 a.m. (Regina time) on Feb. 22, businesses will be forced to reevaluate their hours of operation.
While many fans are simply happy watching the games with a cup of coffee, some wonder if bars will be permitted to sell alcohol in the mornings.
For bars like the Canadian Brewhouse who plan to stay open for these early games, rules stated by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) must be carefully followed.
“In some scenarios we will open early but not serve liquor because it’s not allowed until 9:30,” Markewich said.
Cody Kunstleben, a hockey fan at the University of Regina, felt that his choice would largely depend on his friends’ feelings about the early schedule.
“If my friends were around and they wanted to go, absolutely,” said Kunstleben.
Kunstleben also mentioned that if he were to have the option of going to any bar in the city for the gold-medal game, it would be The Canadian Brewhouse.
Warner Kratzig, a student at the university held similar views to Kunstleben.
“Canadian Brewhouse has a really good sports bar section, so we would probably look there,” said Kratzig.
Kratzig noted the atmosphere at the bar would be “electric” for the semifinals or finals. However, he would be hesitant to go out for any preliminary games.
Both Kunstleben and Kratzig shared the same view when asked if they would enjoy any alcoholic beverages during the games.
“Probably not,” said Kunstleben. “I can’t handle liquor in the morning very well.”
In the past, the SLGA has waived regulations to allow for the sale of alcohol during the morning games for events such as the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. While that decision has yet to have been made, fans and business owners alike are more than ready to cheer on Team Canada. With or without the sale of alcohol.
(This Article Has Been Reedited and Republished)
