What’s Happening Tonight: Olde Town “Designated Drinking Area” Up for Council Approval

Oct 7

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This evening, the Arvada City Council will consider approval of the Olde Town Designated Drinking Area (DDA) — a proposed program that would allow adults 21 and over to enjoy take-out alcoholic beverages outdoors within specific boundaries of Olde Town Arvada.

The initiative, developed by the Olde Town Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by City staff, aims to energize the district’s public spaces, encourage responsible socializing, and support local merchants who continue to navigate evolving retail and hospitality trends.

If approved, Olde Town Arvada would join other Colorado communities—like Golden and Fort Collins—that have introduced similar programs to boost downtown vibrancy while maintaining strong compliance and safety measures.

What Is a “Designated Drinking Area”?

The Designated Drinking Area program would create a defined outdoor zone where visitors can legally consume alcoholic beverages purchased from participating businesses.

Here’s how it works:

Participating Businesses: Must hold a valid liquor license and state “takeout beverage permit.”
Take-Out Beverages: Drinks must be sealed, labeled with an official QR-coded sticker, and purchased from an approved vendor.
Boundaries & Hours: Consumption would be permitted daily from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. within clearly marked areas of Olde Town.
Safety & Compliance: Beverages cannot cross roadways, re-enter businesses, or leave the defined zone, and all drinks must be finished or discarded the same day.
Oversight: The program may be suspended or revoked if violations occur, ensuring public safety and business accountability.

The Olde Town BID would oversee the distribution of official QR stickers and provide training materials to help businesses comply with city and state rules.

Attribution: Information adapted from the Olde Town Business Improvement District’s “Designated Drinking Area Info Sheet” (2025).

What City Council Will Decide

At tonight’s October 7, 2025 Council meeting, the Designated Drinking Area program appears on the Consent Agenda, meaning it’s recommended for approval without debate unless pulled for discussion. If passed, the program will move forward immediately, with implementation details and materials distributed by the BID on October 8.

Why It Matters

Olde Town Arvada has long served as the city’s social heart — a walkable district filled with local restaurants, breweries, and boutiques. The DDA program seeks to: