This is likely the image many have retained from the Olympic summer. Every evening, above the Tuileries Garden, a huge luminous balloon rose into the Parisian sky as thousands of people looked on. Good news for those nostalgic for the Games: the Paris 2024 Olympic cauldron will make its return to the capital this summer. It will be reinstalled in the Tuileries Garden from June 21 to September 14, 2026—exactly between Olympic and Paralympic Day and the future Sports Festival envisioned by Emmanuel Macron.
The most beautiful symbol of the Olympics is making a comeback
Last year, its return had already attracted a huge number of visitors. And it must be said that the structure has become much more than just a souvenir of the Games. Designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, the cauldron had been a highlight of the Paris 2024 opening ceremony before becoming one of the most photographed attractions of the summer.
Just as during the Games, the helium balloon will rise each evening to a height of over 60 meters above the Tuileries. Its unique feature remains the same: unlike a traditional flame, this one operates without fuel. The visual effect relies on a system combining light, water, and mist to create the illusion of a real flame.
Access will remain free, open to all, and without reservation. During the day, visitors will be able to view the structure up close in the gardens before it takes flight in the evening, weather permitting.
The schedule will change slightly throughout the summer depending on natural light. In late June and July, the light show is scheduled for around 10:30 p.m. In August, it will take place around 9:30 p.m., then around 8:30 p.m. in early September.
From June 21 to September 14, one of the most popular symbols of Paris 2024 will therefore take its place once again in the heart of the Tuileries. And it’s a safe bet that the quays, bridges, and gardens will fill up again every evening to watch the cauldron rise above the capital.
📍Return of the Olympic cauldron – Tuileries Garden
📆 June 21 to September 14, 2026
