Indy’s first designated outdoor refreshment area debuts at Irvington Halloween Festival

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – For the first time, people attending the Irvington Halloween Festival can grab a drink at a bar and enjoy it outdoors thanks to Indianapolis’ first DORA.

DORA, or Designated Outdoor Refeshment Area, was approved by the city and went live in October. The idea is to give people another way to enjoy the festival while also creating more opportunities for business. Previously, patrons weren’t able to take their drinks outside the bar, but now participating establishments are able to put DORA stickers on plastic cups so patrons are able to walk outdoors and drink.

“It’s great as long as people are drinking responsibly. I haven’t seen anyone who has been tumbling down. So I think it’s a fun addition,” said Krista Ward.

By expanding the areas where people can drink, Jim Arnoldt, co-owner of the Irish pub Snug, said they are able to serve more customers. “DORA allows for local businesses to participate in ways they couldn’t in the past,” said Arnoldt.

Before DORA, even though an establishment has a liquor license, it couldn’t participate in the annual Halloween festival without an additional festival or catering license.

Andrew Blake walked out of Snug with a beer in hand. “It’s a good step for Indianapolis. I think it reminds us that we can enjoy our awesome city while seeing parts of our small, local-owned businesses,” said Blake. He and his girlfriend planned to stop by various businesses while drinking and enjoying the colorful costumes along the way.

Lily Gleitsman, co-owner of Salon Citrine says DORA helps bring in more traffic.: “I think having the DORA is absolutely amazing. It’s great for all business owners and for the community. People can move around freely and open up more space for more customers.”

DORA is expected to remain part of Irvington beyond the Halloween festival.

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