open season

American  

noun

1. a specific season or time of year when it is legal to catch or hunt for fish or game protected at all other times by the law.

2. a period of time in which a person or thing is exposed to criticism, attack, or recrimination.

   Election year is open season on all incumbents.

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open season British  

noun

1. a specified period of time in the year when it is legal to hunt or kill game or fish protected at other times by law

2. (often foll by on) a time when criticism or mistreatment is common

   open season on women employees

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Etymology

Origin of open season

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The open season runs through Dec. 19.

From Los Angeles Times

The companies are currently scoping out demand and seeking commitments from customers in what is known as an “open season.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Council’s refusal to comment has made it open season on speculation and rumors.

From The Wall Street Journal

Acevedo also worried about officers feeling emboldened to bend or break the rules in the current climate: “You don’t want to re-create the perception, real or not, that it’s open season for bad policing, because you’re going to have that small percentage that’re going to act on that belief that they’re not going to be held accountable.”

From Los Angeles Times

But to get in during the open season of May 23 through Sept. 7, you’ll need tickets, which are available now.

From Los Angeles Times