I forgot about the restrictions you'll face. Do they pull the money and stamps immediately, or is there a transition period?
As to the no comedy for 12 days, that seems really off. I mean the times we live in aren't much fun, but to flat out codify "no laughter, no smiles" seems a bit forced.
As to the pubs being closed, I remember sorely wanting a drink during a hurricane, but my aunt had zapped away the entire bottle I had earmarked for the event. (Liquor never lasted long in her house) and the state had restricted sales of alcohol for the duration.