The University of Minnesota Board of Regents has voted unanimously to expand alcohol sales at Gophers sports venues over the next three years. Starting this fall, fans at Huntington Bank Stadium, Williams Arena, Maturi Pavilion, and 3M Arena at Mariucci will be able to purchase canned and batched cocktails at concession stands and in premium areas.
Special presidential advisor Jon Steadland explained that the expansion will be phased in stages. Initially, mixed drinks and direct sales will be available in the seating areas of the stadium. By 2025-26, full-service bars will be introduced in club rooms, and limited bottle service will be offered in suites. By 2026-27, in-seat “hawking” of drinks will be available at Huntington Bank Stadium, excluding student sections.
While some concerns have been raised about preventing underage students from buying alcohol, proponents assure a “very heavy approach to carding” to address this issue.