Brazilian State Bans Outdoor Raves

Officials in Brazil's southern state of Santa Catarina this week outlawed outdoor raves, supposedly to protect public safety.

The state's security minister told local website Folha Online that raves were "full of synthetic drugs" and added that the parties' frequently inaccessible locations meant revellers were in danger if emergency situations occurred.

Local promoters immediately challenged the ban which could threaten nightlife throughout the region. Santa Catarina, a tourist resort famed for its fantastic beaches, is considered to have the second biggest scene in the country (after Sao Paulo) and recent internationals coming through have included Vitalic, C1 and Miss Kittin.

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