The Union Bar Gets Exemption From 21-Only Rule So Now You Pretty Much Have To Come Out On Saturday

Iowa Press-Citizen- Iowa City’s largest bar, once a hotspot for 19- and 20-year-olds, will again be allowed to admit those under the legal drinking age for shows after successfully applying for an exemption to the city’s 21-only ordinance. The Union Bar, 121 E. College St., received a city-issued entertainment venue exception certificate Tuesday, making it the sixth Iowa City bar currently permitted to admit 19- and 20-year-olds after 10 p.m. for shows. To be granted the exemption, a bar must host shows at least 150 days a year, have a low citation rate for underage alcohol possession, have a permanent stage and professional sound and lighting equipment, and give at least 50 percent of entry fees to performers. Other downtown bars that have entertainment exceptions are Blue Moose Tap House, Gabe’s, the Iowa City Yacht Club, Studio 13 and The Mill Restaurant. The Union, which opened in 1993, according to its website, is the largest bar in Iowa City, with an occupancy of 854. The bar also markets itself as the “biggest bar in the Big Ten.”

Well that’s absolutely perfect timing.  Just a few days before the Barstool Blackout Tour rolls into Iowa City the Union picks up an exemption from the 21-only rule.  Coincidence?  Probably but that doesn’t make it any less awesome.  That means if you’re under 21 you can stay at the bar passed 10pm.  The fact that any bar in Iowa City has this rule is kind of bizarre to tell you the truth.  I understand it’s purpose but it’s just a little bit misguided.  Anyway, combine the Union getting this exemption and the Blackout tour coming to the bar on Saturday there is absolutely no excuse for you not to be there.  I’ll be there partying it up.  Maybe if we see each other we can hug it out.  I’m open to that.  You can get tickets here.  See you guys there.