Happy Hour returns to Indiana after nearly 40 years

Evansville, In. (WEHT)- Most people think Happy Hour is common everywhere, but for those in Indiana it’s only the beginning.

David Parker owns Prime Time Pub & Grill.

Parker says, “People who live here, kind of know how it works in Indiana. in Indiana, the old law was really that if you had a special, it had to be all day.”

State lawmakers and the governor changed a 39 year law in March.

Now, it comes full-circle allowing restaurants and bars with a liquor and beer license to serve alcohol at a reduced price.

Parker says, “This new law gives us the opportunity to do that for a set number of hours per week or per day.”

Happy Hour was originally banned to reduce drunk driving.

One bartender says that’s the common consensus.

Tia Croce at Highland Inn says, “I think a big part of why happy hour went away was, not wanting to, like, let them slam a bunch of drinks. Yeah, in a short period of time and kick them out the door.”

The new law will change how restaurants and bars operate.

Highland Inn says it’s still going to be at its discretion on how many to serve a customer during the predetermined hours.

Croce says, “yes, it’s happy hour, but, you know, any signs that, you know, we call somebody inebriated or whatnot that will do what we have to do and cut em oft. Give them something to eat. Were all about calling Ubers. We’re all about just making sure people get home safely still, but still get to have a good time.”

Governor Holcomb signed the bill on March 14, 2024.

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