INDIANAPOLIS — For the first time, people attending the Irvington Halloween Festival can buy a drink at a bar and enjoy it outdoors, thanks to Indianapolis’ first designated outdoor refreshment area.

The city approved the DORA, which launched in October. The program gives festivalgoers another way to enjoy the event and creates more opportunities for local businesses. Previously, customers couldn’t take drinks outside a bar. Now, participating businesses can serve drinks in plastic cups marked with DORA stickers, allowing customers to walk outdoors with them.

“It’s great as long as people are drinking responsibly. I haven’t seen anyone who has been tumbling down. So I think it’s a fun addition,” Krista Ward said.

Jim Arnoldt, co-owner of Irish pub Snug, said the expanded drinking area lets the business serve more customers.

“DORA allows for local businesses to participate in ways they couldn’t in the past,” Arnoldt said.

Before the DORA, businesses with liquor licenses still needed an additional festival or catering license to serve drinks during the annual Halloween festival.

Andrew Blake left Snug with a beer in hand. He and his girlfriend planned to visit several businesses and admire the colorful costumes.

“It’s a good step for Indianapolis. I think it reminds us that we can enjoy our awesome city while seeing parts of our small, local-owned businesses,” Blake said.

Lily Gleitsman, co-owner of Salon Citrine, said the DORA brings more customers to local businesses.

“I think having the DORA is absolutely amazing. It’s great for all business owners and for the community. People can move around freely and open up more space for more customers.”

The DORA is expected to remain in Irvington after the Halloween festival.