Champs-Elysées: Paris cancels New Year’s Eve concert on December 31 for safety reasons

December 31st promises to be a festive New Year’s Eve in the heart of Paris. The eagerly-awaited event on the Champs-Elysées will combine monumental images, live music and countdowns. The avenue is already gearing up to welcome crowds of people to celebrate the New Year.

New Year’s Eve, December 31: the program on the Champs-Elysées

The City of Paris confirms a major show with free access, built around a mapping of theArc de Triomphe. Musical entertainment will punctuate the evening, followed by a countdown to a pyrotechnic sequence at midnight. In this way, the avenue becomes an open-air stage, complete with sound system and projected images. This format, repeated in recent years, highlights the historic axis of the Champs-Elysées.

The event remains open to all, with no ticket sales. However, a secure perimeter and entry controls are planned. Bulky bags, glass bottles and dangerous objects will be refused, to guarantee safety. In addition, updated information will be provided by the city and the prefecture as D-day approaches.

Concert and musical atmosphere on the avenue

A free concert is announced, with artists and DJs to accompany the midnight climb up the Champs-Elysées. The program will alternate rhythmic sets and visual sequences. Screens and a sound system adapted to the site will allow good listening from several zones. As a result, everyone will be able to enjoy the atmosphere without crowding into one place.

“Here, the party is shared in the open air, with the magic of images and the warmth of a chorus of thousands of voices.”

Mapping will feature visuals on the Arc before the countdown. Afterwards, a brief pyrotechnic sequence will mark the turn of the year. This format respects the urban setting and safety constraints. Finally, the music will continue for a few moments to prolong the festivities.

Access, transport and practical information around the Champs-Elysées

Access is on foot through a vast pedestrian zone, with filtered entry points. Nearby metro stations may close during peak periods, or only open certain exits. So be sure to anticipate any delays and plan an alternative route. The Champs-Elysées remain very busy, especially as midnight approaches.

• Come early to avoid overcrowding.
• Bring warm, waterproof clothing.
• Keep your papers and phone in a safe place.
• Identify a rendezvous point if the group splits up.
• Find out about station and exit closures.

Entry controls mean you need to travel light. So, avoid sharp objects, glass containers and private pyrotechnics. The consumption of alcohol on the public highway may be subject to restrictions according to the by-law of the day. Scooters and bicycles are not allowed in the dense zone.

The metropolitan network runs a special night service on December 31, with several lines open late. However, waiting times may be longer after midnight. Allow time to walk to less busy stations. The Champs-Elysées remain accessible, but patience is part of the return journey.

Schedules, zones and perimeter

Pedestrianization and filtering begin in the early evening. Reception teams direct the flow of traffic towards the active entrances. This way, you can move forward in stages, then reach your vision zone. The Champs-Elysées are organized into sectors to distribute the crowds more evenly.

The countdown show begins just before midnight. The public then gradually disperses, under the watchful eye of security teams. Clean-up operations soon begin, to make the avenue passable. So follow the instructions on site, and keep calm when moving around.

Tips for a peaceful New Year’s Eve on the Champs-Elysées

Arrive early and locate a nearby exit. And don’t forget an external battery, water and a snack. The giant screens and sound system provide a good experience, even from a distance. So you can enjoy the show without the pressure and hustle and bustle of the Champs-Elysées.

If you’re bringing a family, make a note of a fixed meeting point. Also, put a contact card in the children’s pockets. Keep personal belongings to a minimum, and wear comfortable shoes. In short, the more you simplify things, the smoother the party will be.

For photos, keep your supports on the ground and respect everyone’s visibility. Avoid climbing on furniture, as the risks are real. After the pyrotechnic sequence, move away slightly to ease traffic. This way, you can end the night smoothly, and get back on your way from the Champs-Elysées.

• Champs-Elysées