In an unprecedented move, Paris authorities have cancelled the traditional live New Year’s Eve concert on the Champs-Élysées, a signature event that typically draws nearly one million revellers. The decision marks a rare pause in one of the world’s most iconic year-end celebrations.
Pre-Recorded Show to Replace Live Event
Instead of the open-air concert, a pre-recorded show will be broadcast on national television. However, the midnight fireworks display over the Arc de Triomphe will go ahead as planned, officials confirmed.
Police Cite Crowd Control and Safety Risks
The Paris Police Prefecture requested the cancellation, citing serious public safety concerns. Officials described the Champs-Élysées as unsuitable for hosting a large-scale concert due to unpredictable crowd movements and the difficulty of managing massive gatherings in a narrow, high-traffic urban space.
‘More Scares Than the Paris Olympics’
A senior police source told France Info that last year’s celebrations saw “more scares in two hours on the Champs-Élysées than during the entire three weeks of the Paris Olympics,” despite the deployment of over 6,000 officers.
Terror Alert, Violence Concerns Add Context
The decision comes amid France’s elevated terror alert level, with six attack plots thwarted in 2025 and heightened security around Christmas markets. While officials have emphasised logistical and crowd-management issues, some outlets have linked the move to rising violence on the Champs-Élysées involving groups from suburban areas, fuelling debates over immigration and public order.
A Subdued Welcome to 2026
The normally proud and defiant French appear to be stepping back in the face of growing security challenges. As Paris prepares a more restrained welcome to 2026, authorities said final security arrangements for the fireworks will be announced in the coming days.
