France Bans Alcohol at Fête de la Musique amid Intense Heatwave

Sun Jun 21 2026 06:49:48 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In response to a record‑setting heatwave, France has prohibited alcohol at state‑organized music festival events to protect public health.

Parisian streets are hum‑bathed in near‑40°C heat as France issues a red alert for 35 departments amid the 2026 heatwave. The government banned alcohol at all state‑organized events, including the annual Fête de la Musique, to keep emergency services focused on vulnerable patients. Temperatures are expected to peak at 41°C in some areas, prompting widespread closures and postponements. The country keeps its parks and gardens open overnight as a cooling measure while the festival, attracting millions annually, proceeds without alcoholic offerings.

France Bans Alcohol at Fête de la Musique amid Intense Heatwave

Revellers dance in the street during Fête de la Musique 2025

France has banned alcohol consumption in public places during the state‑organized Fête de la Musique celebrations because a red heat‑wave alert is in effect for 35 departments. The ban covers all events funded or organized by the government, ensuring no alcoholic drinks are offered on site.

The French government issued the order to preserve hospital and emergency services and to allow medical staff to concentrate on the most vulnerable citizens. Authorities warn that high temperatures could match historic highs, with 39–40°C predicted for the Paris region and some areas approaching 41°C.

The heatwave has already disrupted national transport, forcing the cancellation of numerous trains and the suspension of school classes. Météo‑France says the emergency conditions may persist for weeks, affecting roughly three quarters of the population.

To help residents amid the heat, authorities keep parks and gardens open through the night. The Fête de la Musique, a tradition held on the summer solstice for over 40 years, attracted about two million people to Paris last year, and millions more worldwide.

For more on the heatwave: Amber extreme heat warning issued as 35°C heatwave approaches. For context on record temperatures: Why temperature records are being not only broken but smashed. Tips to stay cool at festivals: How to keep cool at your summer festivals.