Being able to drink wine or beer out in the open on city streets is becoming more of a reality in towns and cities all across Ohio.

The DORA law it's known, which is short for designated outdoor refreshment areas, was passed into law a few years ago.

Very few areas in the valley have adopted the law; however, Columbiana decided to give it a try on Friday night during their community block party.

The event featured live music, family fun, and alcohol.

It was the first time Columbiana city leaders voted to allow the Block Party also to feature the designated outdoor refreshment area. Meaning participants could purchase beer or wine from participating locations, have it placed in a plastic cup, and enjoy walking around the town.

"We kind of look at it here as an economic development tool that's trying to attract people downtown. We think that our open storefronts will soon be filled because of it," said city manager Lance Willard.

The city marked off locations showing where open containers were allowed and not allowed.

Those 21 News spoke with had mixed reactions.

"I support it 100% as long as it doesn't cause any problems," said Randall Vanarsdale of Columbiana.

"I don't think it is necessary to have the alcohol with the kids involved. It's supposed to be a family thing, and I think it would be much better if they had an adult night or something like that," said Amy Clow of Columbiana.

"There's nobody down here getting rowdy, getting drunk. You know, we're just here having a beer walking up and down the street, and we're actually getting a chance to see all of our neighbors out here," said Ray Colledge of Columbiana.

The event served a sort-of a test run before council decides if they want to do it again. 

"Every time one comes up, it has to come before the city council. City council says yea or nay," explained Councilman Skip Liston.

And this summer, it's likely other opportunities will be presented to council with plenty of downtown events planned.