Your college experience in Athens is about to get a little more refreshing. If you’re a student looking for the best spots to hang out, relax and grab a drink, the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) is your new playground.
What’s DORA? The DORA program, first established in Ohio in 2015, allows for the consumption of alcohol in designated public areas within participating cities. Athens, known for its vibrant nightlife and unique blend of cultures, joined the program in 2021.
The goal? To boost local businesses and create a fun, safe environment where adults can enjoy their drinks outside, whether it’s during a stroll, while shopping, or just hanging out with friends.
The Importance of DORA
The impact of DORA on Athens has been monumental, significantly contributing to the local economy and community. By allowing residents and visitors to walk around with alcoholic beverages purchased from local businesses, DORA directly supports local breweries, restaurants, and bars. This helps keep money within the community, which leads to growth and development.
Moreover, DORA has been a major draw for tourists, enhancing Athens’ reputation as a vibrant, welcoming city. DORA has made our city a more attractive destination for visitors looking for a fun, relaxed, and unique experience.
DORA 2023: What to Expect
Now that we’ve covered the history and importance, let’s delve into the specifics of DORA 2023 in Athens. The DORA zone is located in the heart of downtown Athens, stretching from Court Street to Carpenter Street. It includes beloved local businesses and Court Street staples such as The Pub, The CI, and Courtside, all offering exceptional drinks for you to enjoy as you explore the city.
The hours of operation for DORA 2023 are from 5 – 10 p.m. Mon. – Thurs, 12 – 10 p.m. Fri – Sat and 12 – 8 p.m. on Sunday. This means you can enjoy your refreshing drink throughout the day and into the late evening. Just remember that DORA is for responsible adults; you must be 21 or over to partake.
To identify participating businesses, look out for a DORA logo sticker on their window. After purchasing a drink from one of these establishments, you’ll be given a special DORA-designated cup. Only beverages in these DORA cups can be consumed within the designated area. For a complete list of participating businesses, visit the City of Athens’ official DORA webpage.
Before you head out to enjoy all that DORA has to offer, please be aware of the rules. Drinking is allowed only within the DORA boundaries. Beverages purchased outside of these designated areas, or from non-participating businesses, are not allowed within the DORA. Also, you cannot enter another liquor-selling establishment with a DORA cup.
Make the Most of DORA
As a college student, DORA provides a unique opportunity to experience the best of Athens in a whole new way. Whether it’s catching up with friends after class, exploring the city on a date, or supporting your local bars and restaurants, DORA lets you enjoy the outdoors with a refreshing drink in hand.
Finally, remember to respect your surroundings and others when participating in DORA. Clean up after yourself and know your limits when it comes to consuming alcohol. Athens is our home, and it’s up to us to keep it clean and safe.
This is your Athens, your DORA experience. Let’s make it a memorable one. Cheers to an awesome 2023!