UPDATE: September 10 at 10:40 p.m.
The Washington Alcohol and Cannabis Commission has approved a one-year pilot program to allow the sale of beer and wine within the stadium.
This initiative will include a no re-entry policy during the trial period.
Alcohol will be prohibited in the student section. Additional security will be hired to enforce this rule.
Fans purchasing alcohol will be limited to no more than two drinks per transaction.
Jim Vollendroff, the board chair, shared his perspective on the decision.
“I personally view the sale of alcohol in these venues of entertainment differently than other facilities we license and appreciate the care and consideration that’s gone into assuring that we proceed with a plan that will be successful,” said Vollendroff.
The commission will review safety data collected this year before considering whether to extend the pilot program beyond 2026.
PULLMAN, Wash. – The Washington State University (WSU) home football games might soon see a change as a pilot program proposes the sale and consumption of beer and wine at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium.
This proposal comes after Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 15-15 into law in May 2025, allowing certain jurisdictions to request approval from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board to expand outdoor alcohol service areas. The pilot program request runs until December 31, 2027.
If approved, tailgating may no longer be the only option for fans to enjoy a drink on game days. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board is reviewing a proposal to allow alcohol consumption in general seating at the stadium.
Oscar Hernandez, a WSU student, expressed his views on the potential change. “Alcohol or not I feel as though the whole town sort of shows up for these games,” he said.
Hernandez believes the addition of alcohol sales could benefit certain fans. “Allowing the sale of alcohol might actually help for the sort of older folks I suppose who aren’t necessarily sitting out here pregaming for like 2-3 hours before actually going to the game,” he said.
Support for the proposal has been strong, with many letters from university officials urging the board to permit beer and wine sales in general seating areas.
Hernandez also highlighted potential security improvements. “Maybe it’ll bring about more security measures,” he said. The proposal is similar to one previously conducted at the University of Washington, with service provider Aramark suggesting several safety measures, including a no re-entry policy and increased security staffing. Alcoholic beverages will not be allowed in the designated student section.
Concession stands will implement strict controls, selling no more than two drinks per transaction and requiring proper identification to prevent sales to minors. “Concession stands will sell no more than two drinks per transaction with proper show identification with checks insured to make sure there are no sales to minors,” said members of the board during a Tuesday’s meeting.
He also mentioned that the controlled sale of alcohol could reduce students sneaking in their own drinks. “Allowing the kind of cell of these say cocktail drinks or beer or whatever might limit the amount of straight alcohol that’s being drank inside these of these games because usually what I hear is oh they’re bringing his shooters all they’re bringing in bottles to limit the amount of space required to bring in this alcohol,” Hernandez said.
The full board will consider the proposal during their regular meeting on Wednesday.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE: September 9 at 5:39 p.m.
