Photo by Dino Perrucci


The new Stage 3/4 COVID-19 guidelines issued by New York’s State Liquor Authority contains a rule that bans bars from hosting ticketed live music events. The rule stipulates that while live music can occur at bars, such venues can not have patrons paying for tickets separately. Presumably, because impending cold weather in New York will soon negate any outdoor activities, these rules apply to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

The new guideline appeared in Q&A format on the NYSLA’s website. While the site makes it clear that musical performance is allowed at bars, it also states that such performances must be “incidental.” “Please note that only incidental music is permissible at this time,” read the answer. “This means that advertised and/or ticketed shows are not permissible. Music should be incidental to the dining experience and not the draw itself.”

According to a report on Syracuse.com, the new stipulation “seems to have suddenly popped up in the rules this week.” The Q&A also stated that other forms of bar entertainment, such as comedy or karaoke, are not allowed at all. “Generally incidental music is the only form of live entertainment which is permissible in a bar/restaurant setting currently (in any phase of New York Forward),” it read.

For more information, head to the SLA website.