Paris, June 21, 2026 – The Europe Today: The Government of France has announced a ban on alcohol consumption during the annual Fête de la Musique in areas placed under a red heatwave alert on June 21, as the country prepares for extreme temperatures.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s office, prefects will issue orders prohibiting alcohol consumption in public spaces across departments under the highest alert level. The measure will come into effect from noon on Sunday in regions affected by the warning.
The decision was taken following a crisis meeting chaired by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who reviewed public safety measures ahead of the nationwide festivities. The government also instructed that no alcohol be served at events organised by the state or its agencies during the heatwave period.
National weather agency Météo-France has issued a red heatwave warning for 35 departments, including Paris, as exceptionally high temperatures are expected to persist across the country.
Officials warned that the prolonged heatwave poses significant public health risks and called for strict adherence to safety measures during large public gatherings such as the Fête de la Musique celebrations.
