The short answer is yes, alcohol is sold at Utah Jazz games at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, but there are some restrictions and rules around alcohol sales. Utah has relatively strict alcohol laws compared to other states, so the rules at Jazz games reflect those regulations.
Alcohol Laws in Utah
Utah has some of the most restrictive alcohol laws in the United States. Some key aspects of Utah alcohol regulations include:
- Alcohol can only be sold at state-run liquor stores, bars, restaurants, and other licensed establishments. Grocery and convenience stores cannot sell alcohol.
- Beer can contain a maximum alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5%. Wine and spirits are restricted to an ABV of 20% or less.
- Drink specials and happy hours are banned under Utah law.
- Patrons must order food with any alcohol purchase at restaurants and bars.
- There are strict guidelines around the separation of bars and restaurants from other establishments frequented by minors.
These laws apply throughout Utah, including at Vivint Arena where the Jazz play. However, there are some exceptions made for arena policies.
Alcohol Policies at Vivint Arena
Vivint Arena is equipped with multiple concession stands and lounges that sell alcoholic beverages to patrons 21 and over. Here are some key things to know about the alcohol policy for Utah Jazz games:
- Alcohol sales begin when doors open, which is typically 90 minutes before tip-off.
- Sales end at the conclusion of the 3rd quarter.
- Only two alcoholic drinks can be purchased per ID card per transaction.
- All patrons wishing to buy alcohol must show valid photo ID to confirm they are of legal age.
- Alcohol must be consumed within the purchaser’s ticketed seating area.
- Outside food and beverages, including alcohol, are prohibited from being brought into the arena.
So in summary, there are alcohol sales available to fans at Jazz games, but in limited quantities and only during certain times. The arena staff strictly enforces all policies.
Types of Alcohol Sold at Games
Here are the standard alcoholic beverage options available for purchase by fans 21+ at Utah Jazz games:
Beer | Wine | Spirits |
---|---|---|
Budweiser | Chardonnay | Bacardi Rum |
Bud Light | Pinot Grigio | Jack Daniel’s Whiskey |
Stella Artois | Cabernet Sauvignon | Absolut Vodka |
Bon & Viv Spiked Seltzer | Moscato | Gin |
This selection of beer, wine, and basic spirits is available at concession stands throughout the lower and upper levels of Vivint Arena. There are also some specialized drinks and cocktails available in the arena’s luxury suites and lounges.
Availability in Suites and Lounges
In addition to the standard selection at general concession stands, there are additional beer, wine, cocktails, and food options available in the exclusive clubs, lounges, and luxury suites inside Vivint Arena. These include:
- The Baccarat Club – Premium wines, local Utah beers, and top-shelf liquors are available in this club open only to upper-level ticket holders.
- The Courtside Club – Cocktails, wine, beer, and gourmet food are offered in this exclusive space for courtside seat holders.
- The Jazz Note – Specialty cocktails and an expanded wine selection are available in this lounge that is open to certain season ticket holders.
- Luxury suites – These exclusive spaces offer premium beer, wine, cocktails, and catering packages.
So people in certain premium seats or private clubs do have access to a wider range of alcoholic drinks at Utah Jazz games.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks Available
For those not wishing to purchase alcohol, there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options available at the arena concessions:
- Soft drinks – Coca-cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.
- Bottled water, sports drinks, juices
- Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
- Fountain drinks
- Nonalcoholic beer – O’Doul’s
Free water is also available from large dispensers located on the main and upper concourses. Fans are permitted to bring one sealed bottle of water into the arena as well.
Policies for Minors and Alcohol Service
Under Utah law, the legal drinking age is 21 years old. Here are the policies in place at Vivint Arena regarding minors:
- All patrons wishing to purchase alcohol must show valid photo ID proving they are 21 or older.
- Minors (under 21) found to be consuming alcohol will be ejected from the venue and are subject to prosecution.
- Arena staff reserves the right to refuse service to any patron, including those visibly intoxicated.
- Intoxicated individuals may be removed from the premises.
- Security personnel monitor all seating areas to enforce alcohol policies.
In addition to protecting minors, these rules ensure responsible alcohol consumption for all fans in attendance.
Comparison to Other NBA Arenas
Compared to other NBA teams’ policies, the Utah Jazz have typical restrictions on alcohol availability:
Arena | Alcohol Sale Hours | Drink Limit Per Sale |
---|---|---|
Vivint Arena (Utah Jazz) | End of 3rd quarter | 2 drinks |
Madison Square Garden (New York Knicks) | End of 3rd quarter | 2 drinks |
Staples Center (Los Angeles Lakers) | Entire game | 4 drinks |
TD Garden (Boston Celtics) | Entire game | No limit specified |
Most NBA teams end alcohol sales in the 3rd quarter and limit the number allowed per purchase. But policies can vary somewhat by state and local regulations.
Notable Exceptions
Two NBA teams with more relaxed alcohol policies than the Utah Jazz are:
- New Orleans Pelicans – Alcohol sales extend until 30 minutes after the game ends.
- Memphis Grizzlies – No posted limit on the number of drinks purchased at one time.
However, the Utah Jazz policies follow Utah state laws closely in order to maintain their liquor license and ability to sell alcohol.
Conclusion
While Utah does have strict alcohol laws compared to other states, the Utah Jazz are still able to sell beer, wine, and spirits at games for fans 21 and over. There are limitations, including ending sales in the 3rd quarter and a two drink per sale maximum. But responsible adults can still purchase alcohol at Vivint Arena. Non-alcoholic beverages are also readily available at concessions.
The arena staff enforces all alcohol policies and laws firmly. This ensures minors are protected and that liquor laws are followed within the venue. Overall, the Utah Jazz provide alcohol availability to enhance the fan experience while promoting responsible consumption.