Heatwave Forces France to Ban Alcohol at Major Music Events

French authorities have banned alcohol consumption at music festival events in regions placed under the country’s highest heatwave alert level as an intense early-summer heatwave grips much of the nation.

The emergency measure applies to celebrations marking the annual Fête de la Musique on June 21, a nationwide music festival that attracts millions of people to streets, parks, and public squares across France. Officials said the restriction is aimed at protecting public health as temperatures are forecast to reach between 39°C and 41°C in several parts of the country.

France’s government announced that local authorities in departments under the red heatwave alert will issue orders prohibiting alcohol consumption in public spaces. State-organized events and activities have also been instructed not to serve alcohol during the celebrations.

The decision followed a crisis meeting convened by Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu as meteorologists warned that exceptionally high temperatures could pose serious health risks. Weather agency Météo-France has placed 35 departments, including Paris, under red heatwave warnings, the highest level of alert in the country.

Authorities fear that alcohol consumption combined with extreme heat could increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, particularly during crowded outdoor gatherings. Emergency services have been placed on heightened readiness, while Paris officials have ordered parks to remain open around the clock to provide residents with cooler public spaces.

The heatwave is affecting much of Europe, prompting weather warnings and emergency measures in several countries. Scientists have repeatedly linked the growing frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events to climate change.

Despite the restrictions, French authorities have confirmed that the Fête de la Musique celebrations will proceed, with organizers urging attendees to stay hydrated, seek shade, and follow public health guidance during the extreme conditions.