In Paris, the capital of France, the illuminations of the Champs Elysees, which is customary at this time before Christmas, have begun.
From restaurants and other places where sales have fallen due to the effects of the new coronavirus, we have heard voices hoping that it will be an opportunity for customers to return.
On the Champs Elysees in the center of Paris, 400 roadside trees are lit up for more than 2 kilometers every year before Christmas, making it a winter tradition.
On the 21st, the lighting ceremony was held with the participation of Mayor Hidalgo of the city of Paris, and when the lights were turned on all at once, the street was brilliantly colored in red.
At this time of last year, the spread of the new coronavirus caused strict restrictions on going out in France, and the traffic was sparse, but this time it was crowded with many citizens and tourists.
A 23-year-old female college student studying abroad in Paris said, "I was even more happy because I couldn't hold such an event last year."
In addition, a souvenir shop clerk on the street said, "I want many people to come back," and hoped that the illuminations would be an opportunity for customers to return.
On the other hand, in France, the number of infected people per day has continued to exceed 10,000 this month, and the infection is spreading rapidly in neighboring countries such as Germany and the Netherlands. Some pessimistic voices said that it was unlikely that they would be able to attract customers like before Corona.
This illumination will continue until January 9th next year.