Paris Cauldron Ignites Summer Nights Over Tuileries Garden/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Paris is reviving its Olympic cauldron — a helium-powered, flame-simulating floating ring — above the Tuileries Garden nightly from June 21 to Sept. 14 for the next three years. The 98-foot marvel, redesigned for durability, continues enthralling Parisians and tourists alike, with special displays on Bastille Day and the Games’ anniversary. More than 200,000 visitors experienced it during last year’s Olympics, and it’s now set to become a permanent summer tradition.
Quick Look
- Former Olympic helium-powered cauldron returns nightly above Tuileries Garden
- Visible from city rooftops with LED flame effect; no flame, just helium lift
- Upgraded for durability; launched annually June 21–Sept. 14 through 2028
- Special appearances planned for Bastille Day and Olympics anniversary
- Annealed with cultural revival goals and public engagement post-2024 Games
Paris Cauldron Ignites Summer Nights Over Tuileries Garden
Deep Look
The helium-filled ring, previously named the “Paris 2024 Olympic Cauldron,” has been rebranded simply as the Paris Cauldron in line with IOC regulations prohibiting continued Olympic branding. Beginning Saturday, it will ascend over the Tuileries Garden each summer evening from June 21 to September 14, and this installation tradition is scheduled to continue annually through 2028 — the year of the Los Angeles Olympics.
A Spectacle of Light and Design
Originally designed by Mathieu Lehanneur and powered by French energy firm EDF, the 30-meter (98-foot) floating ring simulates fire using LED lights, mist jets, and high-pressure fans—no real flame involved. The luminous halo hovers at dusk, captivating viewers across the Paris skyline. Though initially intended for the Olympic run, technical upgrades now position it for long-term outdoor operation.
Enhanced Engineering for Year-Round Use
To adapt the installation for multiyear exposure, engineers reinforced structural components. The aluminum frame and tethering systems were upgraded to withstand seasonal weather patterns, ensuring resilience against rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations. The lift mechanism remains helium-based, without hot air or fire.
Cultural Impact and Numbers
During its 40-day Olympic debut, the floating cauldron drew more than 200,000 visitors, becoming a highlight of last summer’s festivities. The launch party on Saturday is expected to attract around 30,000 spectators, timed to coincide with France’s national Fête de la Musique. Special nightly flights are also planned for Bastille Day (July 14) and the Olympic opening anniversary (July 26).
Legacy and Looking Forward
This initiative aligns with President Emmanuel Macron’s vision to preserve the Olympic legacy in Paris and cultivate cultural vibrancy ahead of the next Summer Games. By embedding the floating cauldron into annual tradition, Paris aims to maintain momentum and showcase enduring public art and community engagement.
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