New Year 2026: Paris bans the purchase and consumption of alcohol on December 31 in one arrondissement

As New Year’s Eve approaches, Paris is fine-tuning its measures for a festive and safe night out. The authorities have published a clear framework, with precise timetables and simple rules to apply.

New Year’s Eve changes in Paris

According to a decree issued by the Préfecture de Police, the sale and consumption of alcohol on public thoroughfares will be prohibited over a wide range of hours. The measure extends from 4 p.m. on December 31, 2025 to 4 a.m. on January 1, 2026, with tighter controls in certain areas.

Particular attention is paid to the Champs-Élysées perimeter. In addition, glass containers, firecrackers and fireworks are prohibited, in order to avoid injuries and outbursts in the middle of a crowd.

Alcohol, times and perimeters on New Year’s Eve

In concrete terms, the takeaway sale of alcohol is stopped during the announced time slot. On the other hand, establishments may serve alcohol on the premises, provided they comply with safety and legal requirements.

“Celebrate the night of the 31st, yes, but without risk to yourself and others.”

The forces of law and order remain mobilized to check bags and containers. Glass bottles and fuel jerry cans are forbidden, as are fireworks.

The scheme extends beyond the single axis from Étoile to Concorde. As a result, adjacent streets and squares may be subject to similar restrictions, to smooth traffic flows.

• No alcohol in public areas: 4 pm → 4 am
• Glass, firecrackers and fireworks prohibited in crowded areas
• No sale of fuel in portable containers
• Controls and filtering at key access points
• Follow police and city instructions

Safety, traffic and transport: instructions for use

Access points to the Champs-Élysées may be filtered to avoid saturation. So plan to arrive earlier in the evening, with identity documents to hand.

Road traffic is adjusted according to the number of visitors. In addition, some lanes may be closed for safety reasons, to ensure a smoother pedestrian flow.

Metro and RER networks adapt to demand. As a result, stations close to the area may close temporarily if the density becomes too high, to regulate access.

Concert cancelled, fireworks maintained for New Year’s Eve

This year, the open-air concert that had been announced would not take place. However, the pyrotechnic event is still on, with a set-up adapted to the expected crowd.

The town is banking on a tightly controlled visual spectacle, with no central music stage. The aim is to keep mass movements to a minimum, while preserving the spirit of the festival.

Practical tips for a responsible New Year

Bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes. Bring water and snacks, preferably in non-fragile containers.

Avoid bulky bags, which are often refused at perimeter entrances. A small, well-organized bag will speed up your checks and reduce waiting times.

Adopt a rendezvous point with your nearest and dearest in the event of a power cut. So share your return itinerary in advance, and keep an eye out for open stations.

Families, vulnerable persons, tourists

Families with children may prefer less densely populated areas, on the edge of the perimeter. Also, bring hearing protection if your children are sensitive to noise.

Foreign visitors are invited to follow the sound announcements on site. In short, keeping your documents, paying attention to the signs, and asking for help from the agents makes the evening easier.

What to remember for a peaceful New Year

The times when alcohol is prohibited on the public highway are clear: 4 pm → 4 am. In this way, respecting the rules allows everyone to enjoy the party without incident.

The fireworks display is confirmed, while the concert will not be held. On the other hand, police and municipal supervision will be highly visible, with targeted checks.

Anticipate your movements and prepare a fallback solution. Also, bear in mind that New Year’s Eve brings together a dense crowd, requiring patience, vigilance and courtesy.

• New Year's Eve