THOMASVILLE, Ga. (WCTV) - The Thomasville City Council approved the establishment of a downtown entertainment district on Monday.

During a regular meeting, the City Council approved on second reading to amend the current alcoholic beverage ordinance.

According to Managing Director of Marketing and Communications April Norton, city staff did extensive research across Georgia cities who current ordinances allow for public consumption of alcohol in a downtown or entertainment district.

“The establishment of an Entertainment District will elevate economic vitality and quality of life in Downtown Thomasville,” said Norton. “It benefits both businesses and the community at large and builds upon our continued commitment to progress, enhancing and maintaining our downtown as a premier destination for visitors from near and far.”

The revised ordinance takes effect October 1, 2025, and will establish the entertainment district within the Downtown Development District.

Alcohol consumption hours in the entertainment district are 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Per the ordinance, alcohol may not be consumed on properties used as a church, daycare, or school or in any private parking lot within the entertainment district.

The new ordinance will allow the consumption of alcohol while outdoor dining, which was previously not allowed.

Beverages must be purchased from a licensed location within the entertainment district, be served in a clear plastic cup, no larger than 16 ounces, and have an identifying logo from the location the drink was purchased.

The City will install signs to mark the boundaries of the entertainment district. Establishments will also post signs at all entrances reminding customers of the public consumption rules.

“City leadership is always eager to explore progressive initiatives that align with the long-term goals of our Main Street Program,” said City Manager Chris White. “We are thankful to our Downtown Development Authority, the Main Street Advisory Board, and Destination Thomasville Tourism Authority for supporting this forward-thinking step that we are confident

The new downtown entertainment district will span from Jefferson Street to Remington Avenue, including S. Broad Street.

Below is a map of the entertainment district provided by the city.

The City Council approved the first readings of the entertainment district proposal 5-0 in August.

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