DRINKERS were urged to stay safe as they hit the pubs in Swansea to celebrate Beaujolais Day.
The day celebrates the arrival of the first bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau wine following the first harvest of grapes in that region of France.
Swansea locals go mad for the day, which takes place on the third Thursday of every month, although it’s not clear why the random French holiday is such a big hit in the Welsh city.
Executive director of the Swansea Bay health board Dr Keith Reid warned: “My message is enjoy yourselves but don’t go too far.”
He said that if people have too much fun on Beaujolais Day that it might lead to restrictions at Christmas.
Dr Reid also urged people to get their party together and stick with them, adding mixing in large groups and bar hopping is how the virus “thrives”.
Drinkers were seen – dressed to the nines as is traditional – painting the streets red (and white) as they celebrated the first bottles of the French harvest.
Youngsters were suited and booted as they hit the high street to drink and be merry.
Most partygoers were snapped wearing face masks, although one group of lads did get pulled over for a chat with a policeman.
Pubs and bars reopened again last week following a total shutdown by the Welsh Government.
New guidelines have eased restrictions on non-essential businesses.
What is Beaujolais Day?
BEAUJOLIAS Day falls on the third Thursday in November.
The day is in celebration of the first bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau wine after the harvest.
Locals dress up to the nines and head out for flash meals and drinks with some even describing the night out as ‘bigger than Christmas Eve’.
Keen partygoers will book a year in advance to secure a flash place for dinner and drinks ready for one the clock strikes one minute past midnight and celebrations can begin.
The day has always been huge in Swansea – although it’s not really clear why.
It has been suggested that some of the city’s biggest businesses have links with the vineyards were the grapes are grown, and the day is used to drum up sales.
And Wales Online reports that it could just be down to the city’s ‘quirky’ personality.
That means trips to pubs, cafes and restaurants are back on – as long as people follow social distancing and hygiene rules.
People are also allowed to meet indoors with four different households.
First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “I am confident we will see the impact of what we have done over the last 17 days in the weeks that now follow.”