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Provincial Politics

Alberta nixes booze price hike after premier, Calgary mayor snipe at each other

Jun 22, 2026 | 3:01 PM

The Alberta government says it has directed the provincial liquor regulator to reverse course on hikes to the minimum price of alcohol sold in bars and restaurants.

The increase, which took effect earlier this month, mandates higher minimum prices on everything from spirits and liquors to wine, beer and cider.

For example, the minimum cost for cans and bottles of beer went up to $4 from $2.75.

The announcement from Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally comes after the price hike was mentioned in a social media feud over the weekend between Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas.

Smith had accused Calgary city council of being the “fun police” for implementing new rules around noise and closing times for the upcoming Stampede festival.

Farkas fired back, saying it was Smith’s government that didn’t support good times by hiking minimum booze prices.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 22, 2026.