Olympic cauldron in Paris

The Olympic cauldron in Paris is one of the most magical things you can see right now. As it rises into the evening sky at sunset, it creates an unforgettable, magical experience that you won’t want to miss. This daily spectacle is truly a unique event that captures the true spirit of the Olympic Games in a fascinating way.

But it won’t stay here forever. If you happen to be in Paris at the moment, here is some useful information on where to see the cauldron, the best time to enjoy it and where to photograph it from.

Paris 2024 Olympic cauldron

Usually the Olympic cauldron has a fire, but surprisingly the Paris 2024 Olympic cauldron will not have a traditional fire. Instead, it uses cutting-edge lighting technology to create a stunning visual effect that reflects the flicker and glow of flames. This innovative approach is in line with the Games’ commitment to sustainability, eliminating the need for fuel and reducing the environmental impact. The result is a modern, eco-friendly spectacle that retains the symbolic warmth and spirit of the Olympic flame while embracing contemporary advances. Read more on the EDF website. It’s an engineering masterpiece you don’t want to miss!

Where to see the Olympic cauldron in Paris

The Olympic cauldron is located in the Jardin des Tuileries, the historic garden opposite the Louvre Museum in the heart of Paris. Although the garden is closed to the public during the Olympic Games, you can still catch a glimpse of the cauldron from the space between the Louvre and the Jardin des Tuileries. This vantage point will allow you to experience the splendour of the Cauldron in the iconic setting of central Paris. To get closer to the cauldron you need a ticket (free) and you have to reserve your timeslot. Unfortunately I haven’t had any luck getting a timeslot despite checking the website every hour for days…

Why is the Olympic cauldron placed in Jardin des Tuileries?

Why was the Jardin des Tuiliers chosen as the location for the cauldron? There is a historical background to this: in 1783, Jacques Alexandre César Charles and his companion M. N. Robert made the first free flight in a gas balloon from this very spot in the Jardin des Tuileries.

When to see the Olympic cauldron in Paris

I highly recommend seeing the Olympic cauldron either by day or by night, but its real magic unfolds after dark. At sunset, the cauldron is set 60 metres up into the sky, creating a magical spectacle. However, if the wind is too strong, the cauldron remains on the ground. You can check this page for updates on whether the cauldron will be launched. Normally the cauldron is launched at sunset and remains in the air until 2 am every night until the 10th of August. Don’t miss this captivating scene, which beautifully celebrates the spirit of the games.

Photograph the Olympic cauldron in Paris

There are many beautiful places to capture the beauty of the Olympic cauldron in Paris. Below are a few that are free and open to the public:

• Between the Jardin des Tuileries and the Jardin du Carrousel – in front of the cauldron. With your back to the Louvre
• From the Left Bank (Quai Valéry Giscard d’Estaing and Quai Voltaire). From here you will also have the museum Louvre in your composition
• Go down to Proménade Marceline Loridan Ivens. From here you will have the river Seine and the Louvre museum in your composition
• The statue of Jeanne D’Arc at Rue Rivoli
• Rue du 29 Juillet
• Arc du Triomphe du Carrousel