France restricts alcohol at mass events amid extreme heatwave

France has introduced restrictions on alcohol consumption during large public celebrations, including the national music festival Fête de la Musique, as authorities respond to record-breaking heat across the country, BBC reports.

The government decision comes as extreme temperatures prompted a red alert in 35 departments.

The Prime Minister’s office, under Sébastien Lecornu, instructed organizers not to serve alcohol at official events. The measure is aimed at reducing pressure on hospitals and emergency services during the heatwave.

In Paris and other cities, the music festival—traditionally attracting millions of participants—is being held under tighter restrictions. 

In some regions, temperatures have reached 40–41°C, leading to the cancellation of dozens of train services, suspension of school activities, and special operational measures for municipal services.

By Jeyhun Aghazada