In 2021, the Laramie City Council passed a resolution for an Open Container Area in Downtown Laramie. This was in part to help support downtown businesses after the detrimental effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic. This year, with the passage of Council Resolution 2023-27, the Open Container Area has been reestablished for summer 2023. 

The 2023 Open Container Resolution began on May 25^th and allows residents and visitors to explore Laramie’s downtown with a beverage in hand. While staying within the boundaries of the OCA outlined by Resolution 2023-27, people can take a beverage with them and spend time in Laramie’s beautiful outdoor spaces in the historic downtown area.

“The Open Container District sets our award-winning downtown apart and makes us even more of a destination for both locals and tourists. Our summer outdoor spaces, like Laradise Lane, offer beautiful areas to gather and socialize with friends while supporting our local businesses,” says Laramie Main Street Alliance Communications Coordinator, Jennifer Powers. 

The Open Container Area has had a major impact on downtown businesses and restaurants. These establishments now have the opportunity to serve more patrons than their seating capacity allows for, potentially increasing sales. The OCA allows community members the opportunity to enjoy the rest of scenic Downtown Laramie. 

However, the Open Container Resolution affects more than just eating and drinking establishments; it also impacts downtown retailers.

“Retailers also benefit because consumers can now walk around with beverages, and if the business is comfortable, bring those with them as they shop,” says Powers. 

Additionally, the Open Container Resolution does have specific rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all downtown visitors. The City of Laramie reminds anyone enjoying the Open Container Area to follow the specific guidelines of the Resolution including:

• Staying within the Open Container Area – See area map found on the City website.
• Abiding by the Open Container times and days – Monday-Sunday between the hours of 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. only.
• Not using glass containers.
• Staying out of the  alleyways as alleyways are excluded from the OCA.

The City of Laramie advises residents to enjoy responsibly, ensure trash is placed in proper receptacles, and report underage drinking. They also want to remind the community to not drink and drive. 

Residents and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the Open Container Area until it goes out of effect on October 29, 2023.

For questions, contact Todd Feezer, Assistant City Manager, at tfeezer@cityoflaramie.org or (307) 721.5304, or Nancy Bartholomew, City Clerk at nancyb@cityoflaramie.org or (307) 721.5233.