Market Square Outdoor Alcohol Pilot Could Begin This Summer

Knoxville is preparing to test a new downtown program that could allow adults to carry alcoholic drinks within a designated area of Market Square.

 

The city is launching a pilot Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, commonly called a DORA, for Market Square. Under the proposal, approved businesses would be able to sell beer, wine, and cocktails in specially marked cups. Customers who are 21 and older could then carry those drinks within the designated outdoor zone.

 

The pilot would not allow outside alcohol to be brought into the area. Drinks would need to be purchased from participating, approved businesses and kept inside the boundaries of the DORA.

 

If approved, the Market Square DORA would operate daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. City officials are also considering a similar outdoor refreshment area near the stadium district.

 

Both pilots could begin as early as mid-July, depending on final approvals.

For downtown visitors, the change could add a new layer to evenings on Market Square, especially during concerts, festivals, patio season, and weekend events. For restaurants and bars, it could offer another way to serve customers during busy foot-traffic periods.

 

The pilot also gives the city a chance to test how the program works in one of Knoxville’s busiest pedestrian areas before deciding whether to continue, adjust, or expand it.

 

Residents and visitors should watch for final city approval, posted boundaries, participating business details, and official rules before the program begins.