COVID-19 Restrictions On Bars, Restaurants Affect Attendance On Night Of 'Bedlam'

Some Tulsa bars said Bedlam is typically a big night for patrons and revenue.

Due to Governor Kevin Stitt’s bar and restaurant new restrictions that require them to close at 11 p.m. to curb the spread of COVID-19, the restrictions might have discouraged more people from coming to watch the game.

Logan Brinker, who works at the Tulsan Bar, said it’s been an unusual night hosting Bedlam 2020.

“Kind of weird having to tell people they can’t drink past 11 p.m.” Brinker said.

Brinker said the Bedlam game tends to be their moneymaker, but COVID-19 doesn’t agree this year.

“It has made it different on income and all of that,” Brinker said.

Open Container bartender Peyton Wilson said with a big game like this, having to close at 11 p.m. is reasonable. 

“That’s a peak time for bar business, but I understand the situation that bars are more crowded and people are less likely to social distance.” Wilson said.

Brinker said staff is made sure to wear their masks and physical distance to help keep their customers safe during the game.