The Social District in Gastonia will Create a Hot Spot for Visitors

Taking the lead from other small towns in North Carolina, Gastonia opened its social district on April 28, 2023, with anticipations that the increase in foot traffic will boost downtown businesses and provide a more robust nightlife.

What is a social district?

A social district is a designated area with defined boundaries where people of legal drinking age can purchase, consume and carry alcoholic beverages sold by pre-determined establishments with ABC permits in set social district-labeled cups.

You must be 21 years of age or older. Please drink responsibly.

Where is the Gastonia Social District?

The social district in Gastonia is downtown. It includes part of the Franklin Urban Sports & Entertainment (FUSE) District along Main Avenue that extends from CaroMont Heath Park to Broad Street. Find signage at the entry and exit points along the district border.

What are the hours of operation?

The Social District operates Monday through Saturday from 11 am to midnight and 11 am to 10 pm on Sundays.

Social District Rules

• Patrons can purchase an alcoholic beverage, carry it within the Social District boundaries, and enjoy it in other participating establishments.

• Patrons must be 21 or older and follow state and federal drinking laws.

• Patrons must dispose of their alcoholic beverages in the recycling receptacles before exiting the district.

• Businesses with an ABC permit from North Carolina are authorized to sell alcoholic beverages within the district.

• Businesses that do not have an ABC permit are allowed to participate by welcoming alcoholic beverages into their establishment. However, businesses that do not have an ABC permit are not allowed to prepare and sell alcoholic beverages.