Maassluis extends bar hours for 2026 FIFA World Cup to boost safety and economy
Maassluis bars can stay open until 4 AM during Dutch national team matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This move aims to enhance safety, reduce street gatherings, and support local businesses during the global event.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Maassluis, Zuid-Holland |
| Event | 2026 FIFA World Cup |
| Extended Closing Time | Until 4:00 AM (for Dutch national team matches) |
| Number of Establishments | 4 (initially), more can apply |
| Eligible Establishments | Licensed hospitality businesses (excluding paracommercial venues) |
| Application Contact | gemeente@maassluis.nl |
| Key Stakeholders | Municipality of Maassluis, Koninklijk Horeca Nederland Maassluis (KHNM) |
| Objective | Festive, safe, and orderly World Cup experience |
The Municipality of Maassluis is responsible for local governance, including public order and economic development. In this case, it collaborates with the hospitality sector to balance festive events with safety and business interests. Koninklijk Horeca Nederland represents hospitality businesses and advocates for their operational flexibility during major events.
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Municipality of Maassluis and hospitality sector collaborate during 2026 FIFA World Cup
In close consultation with Koninklijk Horeca Nederland, Maassluis branch, the Municipality of Maassluis has decided to temporarily allow extended closing times for a number of hospitality establishments during matches of the Dutch national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision aligns with the shared goal of experiencing the World Cup in Maassluis in a festive, safe, and orderly manner.
Collaboration with the hospitality sector
Koninklijk Horeca Nederland Maassluis (KHNM) recently submitted a request to remain open longer during late matches of the Dutch national team. The municipality immediately engaged in discussions with KHNM. This constructive collaboration has resulted in a widely supported proposal that has been approved by the mayor.
The extended hours apply to the four hospitality establishments that, through KHNM, have indicated their interest in participating. During matches of the Dutch national team, these establishments will be granted an exemption to remain open until 4:00 AM. The exemption applies solely within the premises, and only match commentary may be broadcast.
Why this decision?
- Safety: supporters can gather in a controlled environment
- Public order: reduced risk of spontaneous street parties
- Economic support: additional revenue for hospitality businesses during challenging times
Paracommercial establishments
Paracommercial establishments—such as sports canteens and community centers—are not eligible for this extended exemption. The reason is that the General Local By-law (Algemene Plaatselijke Verordening, APV) does not permit granting exemptions from closing times for this category. Additionally, this prevents unfair competition with regular hospitality businesses. The existing closing times for paracommercial establishments therefore remain in effect.
Other hospitality businesses
Hospitality businesses that also wish to take advantage of extended closing times during matches of the Dutch national team can express their interest to the municipality. They will then be included in the further implementation of the arrangement. Applications can be submitted via gemeente@maassluis.nl.
Mayor Jack de Vries: “The FIFA World Cup is a wonderful moment when people come together in unity. I am pleased that, in good consultation with Koninklijk Horeca Nederland Maassluis, we have reached a solution that ensures both festivity and safety. We are giving the hospitality sector room to operate, while doing so in a way that suits our city and takes everyone’s interests into account.”
Wiebe Kuiper, chairman of Koninklijk Horeca Nederland Maassluis: “Events like these bring the city together. That’s when you want the hospitality sector to be able to adapt. It’s great that the municipality is thinking along with us and offering opportunities. This way, we can do what we do best: give people a fantastic evening while contributing to a vibrant city center.”