Calgary mayor calls out Alberta ‘fun police’ for increasing liquor prices across the board
Posted June 21, 2026 1:04 pm.
As Albertans are faced with forking over a little more cash on liquor, Calgary’s mayor says the price hike is only causing problems for “people trying to enjoy a pint.”
Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) says minimum prices for one ounce of liquor are now $4 for spirits and liqueurs, $0.50 for wine, $0.25 for draught beer, and $4.00 for bottled and canned beer, ciders and coolers.
A bottle of beer increased from $2.75, and a 20-ounce beer now costs a minimum of $5.00, from $3.20 — nearly a $2 increase for a pint. This is the first price increase since 2008.
The change was made June 9, the same day the AGLC announced special licenses are no longer needed for venues looking to serve liquor in the early morning. The AGLC said in an emailed statement that amendments made to the Liquor Licensee Handbook were made to ensure it “meets the needs of licencees and AGLC.”
“While raising minimum prices acknowledges rising costs and inflation to support industry, the change also reinforces AGLC’s social responsibility commitment to reducing alcohol-related harms by encouraging moderation and discouraging binge drinking behaviours,” the email reads.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas commented on the changes on social media Sunday, calling the province the “fun police,” and saying the “last-minute hike” before the Calgary Stampede starts on July 3 targets those looking to “enjoy a pint.”
“The provincial government will negatively affect thousands of workers and create additional problems for bars and restaurants already facing higher costs,” his post reads.
His comments play on those made by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on changes to the city’s noise bylaw. Farkas said “many major provinces successfully support thriving business and hospitality industries” without raising prices. Smith claimed on social media that many major festivals and entertainment districts in North America operate successfully without restrictions.
“Alberta’s brewing industry is one of our signature success stories. It supports local jobs, attracts visitors, and gives communities something to be proud of,” he said, echoing Smith’s comments on the Stampede being a signature event for Calgary.
Farkas says Smith and AGLC should “reconsider these changes” and “work with operators” to find a solution that balances service with the benefits these businesses bring to Alberta. The premier said the mayor and city council should work with festival operators.
The mayor’s latest comments stem from a flurry of online posts criticizing the city’s move, citing an opinion piece by Penny Lane Entertainment President Paul Vickers, who complained about the city’s noise bylaw affecting the Cowboys Music Festival during the Stampede.
Vickers says it would negatively impact jobs and force the venue to operate at sound levels “far below what audiences would reasonably expect from a live concert experience.”
Several involved in politics, including some who don’t live in Calgary, commented on the bylaw changes, slamming them while citing the Vickers piece.
Those include Premier Smith, her chief of staff Rob Anderson, and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Calgarian and MP Michelle Rempel Garner also slammed the changes.
