Several cities around the world, including Venice, Tokyo, and Strasbourg, have implemented strict measures to ensure public safety during New Year’s Eve celebrations. These measures include alcohol bans, restrictions on fireworks, and crowd management policies. Travelers planning to visit these destinations should familiarize themselves with the rules to avoid fines and ensure a smooth experience.
Venice Imposes Alcohol Restrictions
In Venice, authorities have introduced a ban on carrying or consuming drinks in glass containers—whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic—in public spaces. This restriction will be enforced from 7 PM on December 31 to 6 AM on January 1. Additionally, the sale of drinks in glass bottles, closed cans, or capped plastic bottles is prohibited during the same timeframe. This includes establishments such as bars and restaurants, even those with outdoor terraces.
To further enhance public safety, the city has also banned the carrying of pepper spray. Violators of these rules face fines ranging from €25 to €500. Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro cited safety and public order as key reasons for these measures.
Tokyo’s Shibuya District Tightens Public Drinking Rules
Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district has extended its ban on public drinking to include the New Year’s period. The restriction, which is enforced year-round from 6 PM to 5 AM, is aimed at curbing unruly behavior in one of the city’s most popular nightlife areas.
In addition to the alcohol ban, Shibuya has canceled its iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, including the countdown event at Shibuya’s Scramble Crossing. This tradition, which attracted approximately 120,000 attendees in 2018, has been suspended since 2020 due to safety concerns. Temporary barriers will also be erected around the Hachiko statue from December 31 to 1 AM on January 1. Furthermore, the sale of alcohol in stores will be suspended during this period.
Strasbourg Implements Alcohol Ban and Youth Curfew
The French city of Strasbourg has prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol on public streets from 12 PM on December 31 to 12 PM on January 1. Additionally, a curfew has been imposed for unaccompanied minors under the age of 16 from 10 PM on December 31 to 6 AM on January 1.
Lyon Restricts Alcohol and Fireworks
Lyon has introduced a series of measures to ensure public order during the New Year’s festivities. The consumption of alcohol on public streets is banned from 5 PM on December 31 to 11 AM on January 1, while the sale of alcohol is prohibited from 8 PM on December 31 to 9 AM on January 1.
The city has also cracked down on fireworks, banning their sale, purchase, possession, and transportation from 6 AM on December 30 to 6 AM on January 3.
Plan Ahead to Celebrate Safely
With alcohol bans, fireworks restrictions, and curfews in place, it is essential for travelers to plan their celebrations accordingly. These measures aim to enhance safety and public order during one of the busiest times of the year.
