Adults to roam free with booze at the PNE's new 19+ nights

For a handful of nights this summer, visitors drinking at thePacific National Exhibition's Playland amusement park won't have to stay cooped in beer gardens anymore.

On Monday, officials announced the fair would hostadults-only nights on Fridays in July. Those of legal drinking age can visit between 7 p.m. and midnight.

A statement by the PNE said they'll be free to stroll anywhere in Playland with craft beer, wine and "Playland-themed cocktails like a candy floss martini."

The roller coasters, midway games and other rides will also beopen.

Usually, the exhibition closes around 6 p.m. and alcohol has to be consumed inbeer gardens, save forspecial events.

CEO Mike McDaniel said it was time the exhibition offered an eventfor the big kids.

"Obviously [the PNE] isvery well-known for adults and teens, but we wanted to do something a bit different," he said. "We're wanting to make sure that people can come out and have a great time ... but also have the freedom to not be stuck in a beer garden drinking."

As for the logistics and inherent risks of allowing people to ride fair rides after a few, McDanielsaid park staff have been prepared to prevent mishaps.

"Obviously, if somebody has had too many, we would probably not allow them on that ride. We've gone through specific trainingto ensure staff can spot if someone is too intoxicated for a ride."

He said visitors will ultimately be responsible to know their limit.

The PNE consulted with the Vancouver Police Department as well as provincial and municipal officials to obtain appropriate liquor licensing for the event. McDanielsaid there will also be increased staff and security on site during those nights.

The exhibition has opened up for alcohol friendly events in the past, including 19+ only concerts and craft beer festivals.

With files from Farrah Merali