Allowed and Prohibited Actions at EM Fan Miles
The big leafy plants are set to bloom: The European Football Championship starts on Friday with the game between Germany and Scotland, and city fan zones in places like Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and Munich anticipate a massive turnout. But what regulations do fans need to follow at these public viewing areas? Let's take a look.
Can I bring my bag?
In most cases, bags are permissible, including backpacks, jute bags, and rucksacks. However, they must meet a specific size limitation, typically A4 format. In Hamburg, the organizers even allow A3-sized bags. But in Munich's Olympic Park, it's best to leave rucksacks and the like at home. In Berlin, spectators can pack their own food in those small bags as well.
What should I pay attention to with my own drinks?
Guidelines vary slightly from city to city regarding drinks. One firm rule, though: no alcohol or glass bottles. In some cities, fans can carry non-alcoholic drinks such as water or soft drinks in plastic containers, though these containers usually have a specific capacity limit. City organizers also have food and beverage vendors on-site, including beer and wine spritzers. There's also free drinking water available.
What do I need to leave at home?
Organizers have enforced a series of prohibitions. For instance, smoking is off-limits. Other banned items include weapons, knives, fireworks, laser pointers, and spray cans. Mechanically and electrically powered noise makers like megaphones and musical instruments are also a no-go.
Certain cities like Berlin ban flags on poles, while in other cities, flag or transparent poles are only permitted up to a specific size or diameter. At the EM fan zones surrounding the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag in Berlin, Palestinian and Israeli flags are not allowed. Only flags from participating European Championship countries are permitted, according to a spokesperson.
What else should I be aware of when entering?
Each city's fan zone has its own set of rules, so it's crucial to check those specific guidelines. Admission is generally free and ticketless, but arriving early is recommended due to bag and personal checks leading to longer wait times. To ensure a smooth experience, it's essential to follow all regulations.
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Fans visiting the fan zones in Düsseldorf or Stuttgart should also adhere to the bag size regulations. In Dortmund, bringing a small bag is allowed, while Gelsenkirchen restricts bags to A4 size or smaller. Fans attending the European Football Championship 2024 in Frankfurt am Main can expect stricter rules, as they are advised to leave their bags at home. Visitors to Leipzig can enjoy the stadium atmosphere without the need for a bag, as bag checks are not required.
During the Soccer matches, spectators in Munich will have the opportunity to purchase locally brewed beer and enjoy other food and beverage options. In contrast, fans watching the games in Hamburg might prefer to pack their own snacks, since Berlin's fan zone allows spectators to bring their own food in small bags. Football enthusiasts in Cologne can expect a lively atmosphere and various food vendors, while those in Düsseldorf will find a mix of street food and traditional German cuisine at the fan zone.
