DORA - Elkhart's Social District

A DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) allows individuals 21 years of age and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved licensed establishments. The beverages served in designated DORA cups can be carried outside and consumed within the DORA boundaries.

Elkhart's Social District is designed to enhance the downtown experience by allowing patrons to responsibly enjoy alcoholic beverages in a defined area while ensuring safety and compliance. The DORA is intended to supplement the downtown experience, contribute to a festive atmosphere, and encourage increased foot traffic that benefits our local businesses. 

• Sunday - Thursday: 12:00PM - 10:00PM 

• Friday - Saturday: 12:00PM - 11:00PM 

• Any open alcoholic beverages purchased from designated establishments within the DORA must remain within the DORA. 

• To-go orders of alcoholic beverages must be offered to guests in designated DORA cups. 

  • No glass containers or other non-DORA containers may be used for to-go orders of alcoholic beverages. 

• In the event of unsafe or other concerning behavior on the part of a patron, a designated permittee may deny service if a patron seems overserved. 

• Participating DORA establishments will have signage visibly displayed if the window of their business.