ZDF bans alcohol on Fernsehgarten live show

Since the start of the 2026 season, the ZDF’s long‑running Sunday program Fernsehgarten will no longer serve alcoholic drinks. The ban, which took effect on 10 May, applies to the Mainzer Lerchenberg venue and also prohibits guests from bringing in alcohol. ZDF officials said the move aims to make the show “family‑friendly” and avoid the “Fremdscham” moments that have arisen from intoxicated audiences.

Stefan Mross, host of ARD’s Immer wieder sonntags, joked about the change on air, noting “Die lieben Kolleginnen und Kollegen … können noch einen Kaffee, ein Weißbier oder sonst irgendetwas trinken,” and later added “Normalerweise steht hier Weißbier, aber alles gut.” The broadcaster reiterated that the restriction “does not detract from the cheerful atmosphere of the programme.”

The decision follows previous test runs of alcohol‑free episodes and a viral video in which a viewer drank beer loudly behind host Andrea Kiewel. ZDF has not said whether the ban will become permanent.