open bar

American

noun

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.

Etymology

Origin of open bar

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That included ferry transportation, open bar, food, towels and lounge chairs by the pool and beach.

From The Wall Street Journal

In an era of increasingly coy, event-specific signature cocktails — and the quiet pressure of an open bar — there’s something deeply charming about a punch bowl.

From Salon

The music, the women, the open bar, the outfits—Armani meets Miami Vice—gave the soiree a Wolf of Wall Street vibe.

From Slate

Guests — mostly in their 30s and 40s tonight and from the heterosexual monogamous community — huddled by the open bar during a welcome reception.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s also been discussions about revamping the Pavilion Club to provide more segmented experiences; perhaps one section would cater to young alumni with a DJ and open bar while another would serve other alumni who want a more relaxed atmosphere where they can catch up with friends over a pregame meal.

From Los Angeles Times

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023