The city of Onalaska (known as the heart of Lake Livingston) is located in Polk County, Texas. It lies between Trinity River and Lake Livingston. The city has become a popular vacation spot and retirement community. However, despite its growth in popularity, it continues to still have a small-town feel, with a country atmosphere.
Drinking laws in Onalaska, TX are different from other towns in Texas and in the US. Read ahead to find out what the specific drinking laws are in Onalaska.
Drinking Age
The legal age for buying or drinking alcohol in the United States is 21. However, in Texas, there are certain exceptions to this law. Texas is one of ten states that allow minors to drink, as long as they are supervised by family members.
Those family members then must take full responsibility for the minor’s actions in their care. Meaning, if something were to happen while the minor is under the influence of alcohol, then it falls on the family member to take responsibility.
Liquor Sales in Onalaska
In Texas, beer and wine are sold between 7 A.M. and midnight on Monday through Saturday. On Sunday, beer and wine are sold from noon until midnight. If you plan on buying liquor, the times and dates are a little more complicated. Liquor sales are not allowed on Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Liquor also can only be sold in package stores. Package stores are stores that sell alcoholic beverages in sealed containers so that people can drink them elsewhere (i.e., not bars or restaurants).
Liquor stores also cannot be open on days or hours that certain alcohol is prohibited. If they sell more than just wine and beer, they still need to be closed.
On Sunday, you are allowed to drink at certain restaurants. Alcoholic beverages may serve you with meals beginning at 10 AM. It is also legal to drink on Sundays at 10 AM during sporting events, festivals, or at wineries.
Open Container Laws
An open container is an alcoholic drink that has been previously opened. Drivers and their passengers cannot be within reach of any open container of alcohol. If you are going to travel with them, put them in the trunk or as far back as possible. If you are caught with an open container, whether you’re the driver or the passenger, you can be fined up to $500.
Drinking and Driving
If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher, you are going to be arrested. The punishment for driving while intoxicated (DWI) depends on how many prior incidents you’ve had. If you plan on going out for a night of drinking, take a cab or have a friend drop you off.
Bask in the Onalaska, Texas sun while enjoying a cold drink. However, before you visit, remember to brush up on the necessary drinking laws.