As part of its annual observance of Good Friday regulations, the V.I. Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs is once again reminding business owners across the territory of the legal restrictions on alcohol sales. According to the DLCA, Title 1, Chapter 11, Subsection 171(b) of the Virgin Islands Code prohibits the sale of distilled spirits between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Good Friday in public places of refreshment.
The law, which applies to bars, restaurants, and similar establishments, specifically restricts the sale of distilled liquors—defined as grain alcohol with high alcohol content. Examples include rum, vodka, gin, whiskey, and brandy. These beverages, which are processed through distillation, are prohibited during the specified hours.
However, the law does not apply to beverages such as beer, wine, and cider, which are fermented but not distilled and typically contain less than 15 percent alcohol. Notably, local favorites like Coquito, Guavaberry, and Piña Coladas, which are classified as cordials and not distilled spirits, may still be legally sold during the restricted timeframe.
Violators of the Good Friday alcohol regulation may face fines of up to $200, imprisonment for up to one year, or both, according to the law. Commissioner H. Nathalie Hodge encouraged residents to assist in ensuring compliance by reporting businesses that fail to observe the regulation. Reports can be made directly to DLCA offices at the following numbers: St. Croix: (340) 713-3522, St. Thomas: (340) 714-3522, St. John: (340) 727-3303, or DLCA Scam Line: (340) 727-7226.
