Dear PoP – Alcohol in Parks?

“Dear PoP,

I don’t know how much you know about parks and recreation, but essentially, I’m helping putting together an adult Field Day event at a Park and I’m curious as to the alcohol consumption laws within public parks that have been rented for the day. The Parks and Recreations office is difficult to get in touch with, and although I eventually will consult with them, I wanted to reach out to you and see if you have had prior experience/knowledge with situations such as this. If you get a chance, hit me back and let me know if you have any insight on the situation.”

I’ve actually got a question like this quite a few times. The easy answer is that alcohol is not allowed in any DC Parks. Having said that, obviously people have snuck it in on many occasions. Sadly the nickname for the park at 11th and Monroe St, NW is the “Drunk Park”. On normal days I’d say it is not a good idea to bring alcohol into the park. However, I’m intrigued that the Park is going to be rented out. I wasn’t even aware that one could rent out a park. Even so, I’d imagine the liability would not permit drinking in the park.

Unofficially, I think there is a big difference between responsible and irresponsible drinking at a park. For example the drinking at jazz in the sculpture garden seems to be respectful and under control. If you have a bunch of people getting wasted or passing out, even if they are adults, it is not appropriate in a park or anywhere in public in my opinion.

What do you guys think – should drinking be allowed in a park if the park is rented out for an event and is for adults only?