France Bans Public Alcohol Sales at Music Festival in 35 Departments Under Red Heat Alert

Météo-France issued a red heatwave alert for Sunday, June 21, 2026, covering 35 French departments that include the Paris region. The alert affects more than a third of France and applies to areas where approximately 26 million people live. Forty-five additional departments remain under an orange heatwave alert.

The French government banned alcohol consumption in public spaces during the Fête de la Musique on June 21 in departments under the red alert. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu chaired the meeting that produced the policy. Prefects will issue decrees to implement the ban, and state-organized events will not serve alcohol.

A separate prefectural decree in Paris exempts restaurants and bars that hold permits from the restriction. Paris authorities will keep parks and gardens open through the night. Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire stated on Friday that the combination of alcohol, heat, and proximity to water are three risk factors that don't mix well.

The government said the measures aim to preserve emergency and healthcare services. Météo-France stated that very high temperatures are settling in for the long term across the country. The heatwave began earlier in the week of June 15-21, 2026, leading to dozens of train cancellations and class suspensions.

Temperatures are forecast to peak on Monday, and authorities warn they could match historic highs.