Greene Turtle in Towson plans to close amid controversy surrounding Thirsty Thursdays

The Greene Turtle, a bar in Towson, Maryland, opened in 2022 but is facing closure by the end of the year due to issues stemming from its Thirsty Thursday promotions. The Baltimore County Liquor Board revoked the establishment's liquor license for Thursdays following incidents of unruly behavior and serving minors during these promotions. The bar attracted large crowds, which resulted in disturbances, including reckless behavior by dirt bikers and multiple arrests. CEO Geo Concepcion acknowledged the pressure from the county's liquor board and indicated that these changes significantly affected the bar's revenue, which was expected to decline by approximately $600,000 annually due to the cessation of its Thursday events. Despite attempting to realign its operations, including halting Thirsty Thursday promotions in agreement with authorities, the Greene Turtle faced challenges in retaining revenue and patrons. The bar was highlighted for its significant expenditure in redeveloping the franchise in Towson, estimated at around $4 million, making it one of the most costly yet short-lived franchises in the company's history. Concepcion stated that the inability to operate on Thursdays left the establishment at a precarious disadvantage in a market where such promotions were essential for survival. Baltimore County Council Chairman Mike Ertel remarked on the situation, suggesting that while business closures are concerning, this particular circumstance may not be detrimental to the overall health of the local business environment. Concepcion expressed frustration over the external circumstances impacting the bar's operations but indicated that the safety issues along York Road are broader than just his establishment. The decision to close comes after repeated assessments of the viability of continuing the business, although many other local bars are reportedly thriving under different management strategies. The incident that triggered the suspension involved a notorious Thirsty Thursday event that drew an estimated 800 patrons, leading to a chaotic scene outside the bar and involvement from law enforcement. There is a consensus that losing such significant promotional events may ultimately affect the community's nightlife dynamics and the competitive landscape of the local bar scene. Concepcion conveyed a sense of loss regarding the potential closure, emphasizing the bar's commitment to safety and responsible service in their other operating locations. The situation encapsulates broader themes of business regulation, community responsibility, and public safety in nightlife settings.