DORA

Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area

What is a DORA?

Experience Old Town Warrenton has obtained a DORA License, enabling designated areas of downtown to become “open container” zones. In these zones, patrons can buy beverages from businesses with an active ABC license, carry them outside within the zone, and bring them into other retail establishments if authorized by participating business owners. The license comes with specific rules and limitations, but overall enhances the vibrant, social atmosphere of our historic community.

DORA Guidelines

When is the DORA active?

The DORA License can be activated up to 16 times annually, for 1-3 consecutive days per activation. When activated, the dates and times will be announced on social media and other public platforms.

Where does the DORA apply?

Old Town Warrenton’s DORA includes three zones: 

  • Zone A: Main Street from Culpeper to 3rd Street (most frequently activated, covering major events and ABC-licensed businesses).  
  • Zone B: 3rd Street to 5th Street.  
  • Zone C: 2nd Street from Cast Iron to Main Street.


Click here to enlarge map

Clear signage will mark the boundaries of active zones. Drinks cannot be carried beyond these limits. During street closures, drinks are allowed in all public areas within the zone. 

You may bring drinks into non-ABC businesses within the active zone if the business owner permits it, but they can refuse open containers. Drinks from one ABC-licensed business cannot be brought into another.

Where can I buy drinks?

Drinks must be purchased from authorized ABC-licensed businesses in the active zone. In Zone A, these include Denim & Pearls, Deja Brew, Licorice Pizza, Altered Suds, and Molly’s. Outside drinks not purchased at these locations are prohibited.

How do I get an open container drink?

Participating businesses in an active zone can sell drinks in plastic cups featuring their logo.

Additional Rules

All standard ABC regulations apply, and businesses must comply with them. Law enforcement and EOTW staff will monitor active DORA zones to ensure responsible enjoyment. Laws regarding public intoxication and inappropriate behavior will be enforced. 

Old Town Warrenton’s events aim to be family-friendly, with alcohol as a complement to the experience, not the focus. We encourage responsible enjoyment to ensure our community events remain welcoming for all.

Retail and service businesses in Old Town may display one of the following signs signifying if they allow open container in their establishment or not:

Questions?

Contact director@oldtownwarrenton.org for more information about the DORA License.