Big Sky – Large Event Tips

During April, the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division (ABCD) promotes safe and responsible alcohol sales, service, and consumption.

This week, ABCD presents resources and ideas for safe and responsible alcohol sales, service, and consumption during larger events around Montana and information about non-alcoholic beverages (NA), strategies, and options.  

Sporting Events

Tailgate parties – Be Safe!

  • Serve other options besides alcohol:
    • Food
    • Water
    • NA beverages
  • Ensure others have a Safe Ride Home
    • Pay your teenager to be the designated driver (DD)
    • Have ride-share options
    • Be the DD “hero”

Concerts

  • Eat before attending
  • Don’t “pregame”
  • Designate a driver or rely on a ride-share option
  • Offer or choose NA options

Festivals

  • Track your drinks
  • Know the ABV of your drink(s)
  • Bring snacks
  • Buy food
  • Drink water
  • Offer or choose NA options

Non-Alcoholic (NA) Options

Non-alcoholic (NA) options for sale by licensees are not against the law, BUT it might be a business decision not to sell NA options to people under 21.

Here are the facts:

  • Anything under .5% is not considered an alcoholic beverage and can be sold to people under 21.
  • Licensees may choose to sell those products to people under 21.
    • Perception: 
      • Challenge: It might look like a “real beer or an alcoholic beverage”
      • Possible Solutions:
        • Use a band or a specific type of glass for the NA options
        • Put NA options away from alcoholic beverage options
Together, we can provide every Montanan with the tools and knowledge to opt for a good and responsible time.