Paris: French authorities have imposed restrictions on alcohol consumption during parts of the country’s annual Fête de la Musique celebrations as an intense heatwave pushes temperatures close to record levels.
The nationwide music festival, which attracts millions of people to streets and public venues every year, is taking place under exceptional weather conditions. With the highest-level heat warnings in effect across 35 French departments, authorities have prohibited alcohol consumption in public spaces covered by red alerts.
“For all events organised by the state and its agencies, instructions have been given not to offer alcohol,” the office of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said. Officials added that the measure aims to reduce pressure on emergency and healthcare services, allowing medical personnel to focus on protecting vulnerable groups during the extreme heat.
Temperatures are expected to reach between 39°C and 40°C across a broad stretch of the country, from southwestern France through the Paris region and into Burgundy.
Some locations could see temperatures climb as high as 41°C. Forecasters expect the heatwave to peak on Monday, with temperatures potentially approaching historic records.
The severe weather has already disrupted daily life across France, leading to the cancellation of dozens of train services and the suspension of classes in some areas. According to the national weather agency, Météo-France, it remains unclear how long the heatwave will persist. The event is estimated to affect roughly three-quarters of the French population.
To help residents and visitors cope with the extreme temperatures, Paris authorities have decided to keep parks and gardens open overnight, offering cooler spaces for relief.
Fête de la Musique, a tradition that has been celebrated for more than four decades and is held annually on the summer solstice, remains one of France’s largest cultural events. Last year alone, around two million people attended festival activities in Paris.
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