Division of Liquor Control: What to know before enjoying Ohio’s DORAs during fall festival season
As Ohioans make plans to attend fall festivals, harvest markets, and seasonal community events throughout the state, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control is highlighting the importance following the rules surrounding the state’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Areas (DORAs). With more than 180 DORAs statewide, these spaces continue to enhance local economies and support autumn traditions.
DORAs offer communities defined spaces where adults can enjoy alcoholic beverages outdoors when purchased from participating liquor permit holders as an exception to open container laws. Because each DORA is created at the local level, Ohioans are reminded that rules can differ from one community to another, including hours of operation, boundary locations, signage, and required cup types. Ohioans can find information on DORAs statewide by visiting the Division’s interactive DORA map at com.ohio.gov/DORAmap, which offers boundary details and links to local rules for each community.
After receiving a DORA resolution from local governments, the Division reviews its compliance with Ohio law and issues a DORA designation to eligible permit holders. This designation allows customers to consume alcoholic beverages outside the permit premises in approved DORA cups.
“DORAs are especially popular in the fall, when communities host festivals and seasonal attractions,” Division Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. “Knowing your local DORA rules helps to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone.”
It’s common for many nonprofit organizations planning to host fall festivals to obtain temporary liquor permits to support their events. If their event is located within an existing DORA, the temporary permit holder can receive a DORA designation, allowing beverages sold in approved DORA cups on the festival grounds to be enjoyed throughout the broader DORA. Organizers should remember that alcohol purchased from one permit holder, such as at a bar, must be consumed either in that location or outdoors; it cannot be carried into another permit area. In addition, temporary permit spaces cannot block entrances or exits of other liquor permit holders within the DORA.
With half of the 14 cideries participating in the Ohio Hard Cider Trail located within a DORA, Ohioans have a unique opportunity to explore the state’s blossoming craft cider scene while also experiencing the vibrancy and walkability of DORA districts throughout the state. Running now through Dec. 1, 2026, the Trail celebrates 250 years of American spirit and highlights Ohio’s deep cider‑making roots.
Ohio adults who are 21 and older can pick up a free Hard Cider Trail passport at participating cideries or download one online. After receiving one passport stamp, trail-goers can enter a raffle to receive cider-themed prizes. Those who collect six or more stamps can redeem their passport for a limited‑edition America 250‑Ohio Hard Cider Trail bottle‑opening commemorative coin, while supplies last. To redeem, visit com.ohio.gov/250cidertrail to upload a photo of the completed passport and submit a brief form. Once verified, the coin will be mailed to eligible participants.
“The Ohio Hard Cider Trail connects history, local makers, and community spaces,” DeGenova said. “Pairing the trail with DORAs gives Ohioans a fun, safe way to discover our cider culture and support local businesses.”
Responsible Participation Remains Key
Whether attending fall festivals, exploring the Hard Cider Trail, or visiting local DORAs, Ohioans should enjoy responsibly.
Plan responsibly – Adults planning to visit a DORA and consume alcohol should be sure to drink plenty of water, eat a meal, and make arrangements for a safe ride home. That can include finding a designated driver, saving contact information for a taxi cab company in your phone beforehand, or making sure you have a ridesharing app downloaded.
Participate responsibly – Attendees are reminded to follow all of Ohio’s open container laws, including:
• Not bringing their own alcohol into a DORA.
• Not taking a DORA beverage purchased from one permit holder into another permit holder’s premises. This also applies to temporary permit events within a DORA, which are treated the same as any other retail permit location.
• Respecting businesses that choose not to allow alcoholic beverages inside.
• Paying attention to the signage that identifies the DORA’s boundaries.
Serve responsibly – Permit holders must not serve alcohol to anyone under 21 or individuals who are already intoxicated. Consumers should never buy alcohol for individuals who are under the age of 21.