open bar

American  

noun

1. a bar at a reception that serves drinks whose cost has been borne by the host, an admission charge, a sponsor, etc..

   Before the banquet there will be an open bar from 5 to 7 p.m.

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Etymology

Origin of open bar

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

open bar

But hopefully now when I’m at these celebrations I can focus on the fun, not the funding — especially if there’s an open bar.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 7, 2026

The open bar at the reception ended up costing $62,500—$250 a head for 250 guests—so they chose not to have one at all seven events.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 3, 2026

"But that comes with different expectations," she says, explaining that Polish weddings are often expected to include a large celebration, endless food, an open bar and free accommodation.

From BBC ● Jul. 2, 2026

Some bolted for the door; others made a beeline for the open bar.

From Slate ● Mar. 3, 2025

Landon is sure there’s crooked work going on at that mill—certainly that open bar is a disgraceful and corrupting thing.”

From The Forester's Daughter A Romance of the Bear-Tooth Range by Garland, Hamlin