In view of the upcoming Vesak festival, all liquor outlets, bars, taverns, meat stalls, butcheries, horse race betting centres, casinos, and clubs will be closed for three days from tomorrow (May 12), the Ministry of Public Administration announced.
The closures, effective on May 12, 13, and 14, are part of the official Vesak Week (May 10–16), declared by Cabinet decision. A circular has been issued to relevant authorities, confirming the nationwide observance, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Aloka Bandara said.
The Vesak Week of 2025 (Year 2569 in Buddhist Calender) is marked from May 10 to May 16, as a per a Cabinet decision. The decision has been conveyed to the Secretaries to the President, Prime Minister and Ministers and heads of statutory bodies, Bandara said adding that a circular has been issued on the closure of aforementioned places.
Excise Commissioner General Udaya Kumara said that liquor sales will be strictly prohibited during the three days. Restaurants and tourist hotels have been instructed not to serve alcohol to guests.
An Excise Department official noted the ban is typically in place for two days but has been extended by an extra day this year to coincide with the State Vesak Festival.Liquor license holders have been warned to comply, while the public is urged to report violations via hotline 1913 or 011-2877688.
By Chaminda Silva
