​WHAT IS A DORA?
A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) allows patrons ages 21 and older to purchase an alcoholic beverage from an approved, liquor-permitted establishment, then sip, stroll, shop and explore within the designated boundaries.

Urbana City Council has approved a DORA for Downtown Urbana. See map for boundaries. The State of Ohio approved the DORA concept in 2015. Regionally and throughout the State of Ohio, DORAs have proven to be generally popular and have been well received in the vast majority of communities where they have been established. Furthermore, communities with DORAs already in place and operational have  reported minimal issues as a result of the operation of their DORAs.

Lastly, the overall purpose of establishing a DORA for Downtown Urbana will continue to build upon increased economic activity, investment, and
development within the downtown. Furthermore, the establishment of a DORA in Downtown Urbana will assist with the continued revitalization of Downtown Urbana by furthering patronage of new and existing dining and shopping options by the local community, region, and tourists.

DORA Frequently Asked Questions
​Q: What are the days/times of the DORA?
A: 7 Days/Week 11:00AM - 10:00PM

Q: Can I bring my own drink into the DORA?
A: No - you can purchase your favorite drink in a marked DORA cup from a participating establishment.

Q: Can I take my DORA beverage from one liquor establishment to another?
A: No - you cannot take a full or partially-filled cup back into the liquor establishment where you purchased it after exiting, and you can't take a full or partially-filled cup into another liquor establishment.

Q: Can I take my DORA beverage into my favorite shop?
A: Yes, if that establishment indicates that they allow DORA beverages by displaying a green DORA sign.

​Q: How will the DORA be enforced?
A: Urbana Police Division will monitor the DORA area during routine patrols. All liquor regulations apply to establishments and patrons within the DORA, including overserving and drunk driving laws. Please drink responsibly.

Q: Can I walk anywhere with my DORA cup?
A: No. Patrons can only carry DORA beverages within the defined area; see map for further details. Retail and private establishments may or may not allow DORA beverages.

Q: Can I pour my own alcohol into a DORA cup and carry it?
A: No. Beverages must be purchased from participating vendors.

Q: How much is a DORA cup?
A: Each DORA cup will cost $1 and a portion of the proceeds goes to support the continued revitalization of Downtown Urbana!

Luminaries will light the way on the evening of December 1st, as many of the downtown merchants open their doors for the first Downtown Urbana Candlelight Walk.  Due to the cancellation of the Cancer Association of Champaign County’s (CACC) Candlelight Tour of Homes, retailers discussed how they could help the association raise additional funds.  
 
On Saturday December 1st, the stores will be lit with luminaries, and during the hours of 4 - 7 P.M. each will have a promotion to encourage customers to donate to the Cancer Association.  In addition, merchants will donate a portion of their sales. Tina Knotts, owner of Let’s Eat Cake stated “We are grateful for the support we receive from the community and this is our way of giving back.” 

​Several of the merchants have also volunteered to sell CACC calendars during the month of December. The group has been in contact with Brett Evilsizor, president of the CACC who is supportive of their efforts.  Pat and Patsy Thackery, owners of Cafe Paradiso have also agreed to participate, and are asking other downtown restaurants to get involved.
 
As of press time, Oxner’s, Community Thrift, Lily’s Garden, Fruit Salad, Let’s Eat Cake, PB&J on Main, The Bull, Cafe Paradiso, Fusion, Coppertop and Kaleidoscope are participating restaurants and retailers. Each shop will have at least 6 luminaries to make the downtown area festive and light the way for customers.
 
According to their website, the Cancer Association helps people dealing with the effects of cancer on their daily lives, and provides financial assistance with medicines and treatment.   The funds stay in Champaign County, and the organization is totally funded by donations.