Why are liquor stores also called package stores?

Factual Questions
1

In some parts of the country, especially the south, liquor stores are called package stores. Where did it come from?

2

I believe it has to do with making a distinction between package liquor (i.e., in a sealed bottle to take home with you) and poured liquor.

3

I think Gary T is right. I live in the Boston area and we have “Packies” or “Package Stores.” The way it was explained to me when I moved here had to do with blue laws.

It is illegal to buy bottles, cans, or boxes of alcohol here on Sunday. You CAN however, go into your local pub and have them pour you a stiff one and hand it over the bar.

So, while the “Packies,” which are regular old liquor stores, are closed on Sundays, the bars are not.

4

In NJ they have liquor stores, where you can get beer, wine, and the hard stuff. In PA, they have beer distributors and state stores (for wine and the hard stuff). What I think of as a package store sells food, snacks, and beer in six-packs.

YMMV

5

Package = sealed container, to be taken elsewhere for consumption

By-the-drink = single serving, to be consumed on premises.

There are STILL blue laws? the things I miss from back east… :rolleyes: