Social District Guidelines

Patrons are able to consume alcoholic beverages outdoors within two Social Districts in Downtown Boston.

The Social Districts at Union and Marshall Streets—located in Downtown’s Blackstone Block Historic District—and on Temple Place in Downtown Crossing are open through July 31.

They are designed to create a vibrant, safe, and welcoming experience for everyone. Follow these guidelines to enjoy the Districts, support local businesses, and help keep the areas clean and safe.

Guidelines

Purchase beverages only from participating bars and restaurants.
Keep your drink in the clear plastic cups provided by the specific bar and restaurants where the drink was purchased.
Stay within the designated Social District boundaries.
Dispose of cups and trash in provided receptacles.
Follow instructions from public safety personnel, business owners, and staff.
Be respectful of residents, businesses, and fellow patrons.
Plan a safe ride home and look out for those in your group.
Support local businesses while exploring the district.

DON’T

Bring outside alcohol into the Social District.
Remove alcoholic beverages from the designated Social District area.
Transfer alcohol into non-approved containers.
Share alcoholic beverages with anyone under 21.
Engage in disorderly, disruptive, or unsafe behavior.
Litter or leave cups behind.
Drive under the influence.
Enter any business with alcohol from another bar or restaurant.

About Social Districts

The Union-Marshall Street Social District operates from 9 a.m. to midnight on Mondays through Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. The Temple Place Social District operates from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays.