During regular session on Monday, September 8th, the Thomasville City Council approved on second reading to amend the current alcoholic beverage ordinance, establishing a new Downtown Entertainment District and creating regulations for the consumption of alcoholic beverages and outdoor dining on public property within the district.
According to Managing Director of Marketing and Communications April Norton, City staff completed extensive research across more than 50 Georgia cities whose current ordinances allow for public consumption of alcoholic beverages in a Downtown or Entertainment District, prior to recommending the establishment of a similar district in Thomasville.
“The establishment of an Entertainment District will elevate economic vitality and quality of life in Downtown Thomasville,” said Norton. “It benefits both businesses and the community at large and builds upon our continued commitment to progress, enhancing and maintaining our downtown as a premier destination for visitors from near and far.”
Key provisions of the revised ordinance include:
- The ordinance takes effect on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
- Establishment of the Downtown Entertainment District within the Downtown Development District.
- Alcohol consumption hours on public property throughout the Entertainment District:
- Monday - Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
- Location restrictions - Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed:
- On parcels used as a church, daycare center, or school.
- In any private parking lot within the Entertainment District.
- Outdoor dining framework - Provides formal authorization for the consumption of alcoholic beverages in connection with outdoor dining, which was previously prohibited.
- Container requirements - Beverages must:
- Be purchased from a licensed establishment within the Entertainment District.
- Be served in a clear plastic cup no larger than 16 oz.
- Include an identifying logo from the establishment where the beverage was purchased.
- Signage requirements:
- The City will install signs marking the boundaries of the Entertainment District.
- Establishments must post signage at all entrances/exits notifying customers of the public consumption rules.
“By expanding upon the success of event-based open container permissions, this district will create a more dynamic, walkable, and welcoming environment,” said Norton. “The increase of foot traffic and extended downtown visits will drive retail sales and restaurant activity throughout the district.”
“City leadership is always eager to explore progressive initiatives that align with the long-term goals of our Main Street Program,” said City Manager Chris White. “We are thankful to our Downtown Development Authority, the Main Street Advisory Board, and Destination Thomasville Tourism Authority for supporting this forward-thinking step that we are confident will continue to strengthen our downtown core and better position our merchants for future success.”
To review the approved alcoholic beverages ordinance, please visit www.thomasville.org. For additional information or questions, contact Public Information Manager Ricky Zambrano at ricky.zambrano@thomasville.org or 229-227-7041.