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Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia is among the Philadelphia casino venues approved for extended operating hours during the World Cup. The change could mean more nightlife options for casino visitors and other late-night customers in the city.
At least 36 Philadelphia businesses had been granted special permits as of Friday. However, over 20 additional applications are still under review.
The permits were issued through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board process. They allow approved businesses to sell alcohol for two extra hours through July 20.
Live! Casino Philadelphia Included In the Approved List
The approved group spans a wide mix of Philadelphia nightlife and hospitality businesses. These include casinos, bars, karaoke spots, strip clubs, nightclubs, and restaurants.
Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia is among the specifically named venues in the list for extended World Cup operating hours. Live! Casino Pittsburgh has also received similar approval to serve alcohol until 4 a.m.
Other named operators in the report included Craft Hall, Morgan’s Pier, The Barbary, Woody’s, Club Risque, and Cellar Dog. The permits were limited to businesses in Philadelphia proper.
For the local casino market, the development is more of an entertainment and operations update than a gambling policy update. The report does not indicate any change to gaming rules or casino regulations. Instead, it centers on temporary alcohol service extensions during a major international sports event.
What the Permit Actually Allows
The special permit allows approved businesses to sell alcohol for an extra two hours. However, having a permit does not guarantee 4 a.m. hours every day. That distinction matters for late-night visitors. A venue may have the legal ability to extend service, but its actual hours can still vary by date or business decision.
We reached out to Live! Philadelphia for confirmation. The casino confirmed it will not be extending alcohol service to 4 a.m. The venue will continue on its current schedule, serving alcohol from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Similarly, Live! Casino Pittsburgh has not yet confirmed to use that option. Visitors should call the venue directly to know bar hours during the World Cup.
The Approval Process Is Still Running
The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board is approving or rejecting applications on a rolling basis. More than 20 Philadelphia applications were still under review at the time of the report, and further decisions are expected.
Businesses must wait 30 days after submitting an application. A permit cannot be issued before that window closes. Applicants must also post public notices about their application outside the property.
What Visitors Should Know Before July 20
The permit window closes on July 20. Not every approved business will necessarily use the full extension every night. Not every applicant will be approved, either. Before any late-night visit in Philadelphia, confirm hours in advance directly with the venue.
