What is Open Bar?

An open bar (also called a hosted bar) is a beverage service where the event host covers the cost of all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for guests. Guests can order drinks freely without paying. Open bars can be full (offering all types of alcohol) or limited (offering only beer, wine, and select spirits). Pricing models include per-person charges, consumption-based billing, or flat fees. While open bars are generous and popular with guests, they can be expensive. Some hosts compromise with a limited open bar for the first few hours followed by a cash bar, or offer only beer and wine.