The countdown has started! The Olympic and Paralympic Games, the biggest athletic event in the world, will take place in Paris starting on July 26, 2024.
All set to go! Paris and France are set to welcome guests from all around the world a year ahead of the much awaited Olympic opening ceremony. The Paris 2024 Games will begin with an unparalleled opening ceremony on July 26, 2024, on the Seine. These games are expected to be magnificent, innovative, sustainable, and open to the largest number of people!
The Paris 2024 Games start now!
The anticipation is palpable as July 26, 2024 draws near. Paris, a city synonymous with elegance, culture and joie de vivre, is ready to welcome the world. For the third time, the French capital will host the Olympic Games, building on the successes of 1900 and 1924. But these Games in 2024 promise to be like no other.
As the sun sets on the evening of July 25th, thousands have already begun gathering along the banks of the Seine. The iconic skyline illuminated in blues, guests take their seats in the temporary stadium constructed just for this occasion. Musicians from around the globe tune their instruments in preparation. Dancers stretch and run through the choreography one final time.
Midnight chimes and the crowd erupts into cheers. A flotilla of boats adorned with glowing lanterns travels down the river, the Olympic flame held proudly aboard the lead vessel. Fireworks light the night sky in a kaleidoscope of colors. When the torch reaches its destination, the flame is transferred by hand to the first runner – a young woman who represents hope and solidarity.
Thus begins the Torch Relay, winding its way through the charming streets of Paris. Emotions run high as citizens young and old line the routes, waving flags and shouting words of encouragement. The runners are of all backgrounds but united in purpose – to bring the light of the Games to each corner of the host city. Music plays everywhere to lift spirits. By dawn, the torch has made its way to every arrondissement.
July 26th. As the sun rises, anticipation climbs to a fever pitch. The stadium comes alive with flags, costumes, and painted faces. Every culture and country represented in the crowds. The air crackles with positive energy. At last, the Opening Ceremony is ready to commence.
The national anthem of France rings out, stirring pride in every heart. A breathtaking drone show illuminates the sky with images representing the host city’s identity and values of excellence, friendship, and respect. Athletes from over 200 nations march in alphabetical order per tradition, each delegation greeted by thunderous applause.
Speeches are given to officially declare the Games open. The Olympic Oath is taken to uphold the Olympic spirit. And then, it is time for the highlight – the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron. Emilie Le Pennec, a young triathlete, carries the torch on the final leg. With one last burst of effort, she passes the flame to legendary French footballer Tony Estanguet. The stadium holds its breath.
Estanguet touches the torch to the Cauldron and it erupts in a spectacular shower of fireworks. A unified roar shakes the arena. Tears of joy flow freely. The Olympic Games are now underway. Dancers and acrobats take to the stage, portraying the history and cultural accomplishments of the host nation. A celebration of humanity through sport, art, and friendship has begun. The energy will carry through the next two weeks and beyond.
The Olympic Flame now burns brightly over Paris, a beacon of hope and renewal. Though challenges remain in our world, these Games remind us of our shared dreams and potential. In the true Olympic spirit, differences fade and people of all backgrounds embrace each other as fellow citizens of the world. The magic of this night will forever be etched in the memories of all those who bore witness. Paris 2024 – the start of an unforgettable global experience.
Olympic Torch Relay
Olympic Torch Relay
In the ethereal glow of a spring morning on May 8, 2024, the Olympic torch, a symbol of unity and athletic excellence, makes its grand entrance into France, greeted by the picturesque landscapes and vibrant spirit of Marseille. Embarking on a remarkable journey, this sacred flame, ignited in Olympia, Greece, sails across the vastness of the Mediterranean Sea, carrying with it the dreams, aspirations, and anticipation of a nation ready to embrace the Olympic fervor.
As the torch touches French soil, it initiates a transcendent odyssey, weaving through the heart of the country, an odyssey spanning 12,000 kilometers of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. The torch’s path is not just a geographical route but a narrative etched in the collective soul of the French people, connecting past and present in a celebration of resilience and athletic prowess.
One of the early stops on this enchanting journey is the hallowed grounds of the ancient Lascaux site. Here, amidst the whispers of prehistoric echoes, the torch pays homage to the origins of human art and expression. The flame dances in harmony with the cave paintings, a symbol of the unbroken chain of human achievement that has led to the pinnacle of athletic excellence – the Olympic Games.
Continuing its voyage through the soul-stirring landscapes of Burgundy, the torch arrives at Alésia, a place resonating with the echoes of ancient battles and victories. The flame, like a beacon of triumph, illuminates the path forward, inspiring not just athletes but all who witness its radiant journey to aspire for greatness in their own endeavors.
The medieval city of Carcassonne becomes a canvas for the torch’s brilliance. Its narrow cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and time-honored architecture bear witness to centuries of stories. The flame, as it dances through these historic alleys, weaves together the threads of past and present, symbolizing the continuity of human achievement across time.
The torch’s odyssey takes an awe-inspiring turn as it graces the presence of the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel. Against the backdrop of this architectural marvel, the flame stands as a testament to the union of human ingenuity and natural beauty. The torchbearer, like a pilgrim on a sacred journey, carries the aspirations of a nation to the pinnacle of excellence.
Versailles, with its regal splendor, welcomes the torch in the embrace of its storied castle. The grandeur of the palace serves as a fitting stage for the celebration of human achievement and unity. The torch’s flickering glow reflects off the opulent halls, echoing the sentiment that greatness knows no bounds.
But the journey doesn’t end here. The torch becomes a seafaring emissary, traversing the azure waves in a maritime relay that embraces the enchanting territories of Guadeloupe, Guyana, Martinique, French Polynesia, and Reunion. The sea, a vast expanse of possibilities, carries the flame to distant shores, connecting the diverse cultures and landscapes that make up the French mosaic.
As the torch exits metropolitan territory on June 17, 2024, it leaves behind a trail of inspiration and anticipation. The journey, a tapestry woven with the threads of history, culture, and human spirit, converges upon the grand stage of Paris. On July 26, 2024, the torch’s radiant flame will ignite the Olympic cauldron, marking the culmination of a journey that transcends borders and resonates in the hearts of millions.
The Olympic Torch Relay is not merely a physical journey; it is a manifestation of the indomitable human spirit, a celebration of diversity, and a beacon of hope. It symbolizes the unity of nations, the pursuit of excellence, and the everlasting flame that illuminates the path towards a brighter, more connected future. As the torch continues its mesmerizing odyssey, it carries with it the collective dreams of a nation and the promise of a world united in the pursuit of greatness.
Highlights of the Olympic Torch Relay
January 15, 2024: the 11,000 torch bearers (10,000 for the Olympic Games and 1,000 for the Paralympic Games) of the flame are revealed. The torch relay is carried out by team, highlighting athletes engaged in their sport, in their territory and on a collective level. Each relay will have its captain, among whom are announced: Laura Flessel for fencing, Camille Lacourt for swimming, Émilie Le Pennec for gymnastics and Pascal Gentil for taekwondo.
April 16, 2024: lighting of the Olympic Flame in Olympia, Greece, during an exceptional ceremony
May 8, 2024: arrival of the Olympic flame in Marseille and start of the Olympic Flame Relay on French territory: 65 stopover cities, 100 emblematic sites, 80 days
July 14 and 15, 2024: the Olympic Flame in Paris
Other highlights before the Paris 2024 Games
Paris 2024 Games Paris olympics 2024
The Olympic Torch Relay is part of a rich program of events ahead of the Paris 2024 Games. Overview of the highlights to experience while waiting for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games:
Paris 2024 Cultural Olympiad
A myriad of free events combining culture and sports, to be experienced until the end of summer 2024
Discover the program for the Paris 2024 Cultural Olympiad
Opening of SPOT24
A new multifaceted place of 1,000m² located a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, housing in particular a tourist information point, a boutique – official point of sale for 2024 derivative products and Paris Je t’aime products – an exhibition space…
Address: 101 quai Jacques Chirac, Paris 15th
January 15, 2024: opening of the tourist information point. Every day, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
End of January 2024: opening of other spaces (exhibition and shop)
Berluti and Le Coq Sportif unveil Olympic outfits
During January 2024: Berluti unveils the outfits of French athletes during the opening ceremony. On January 16, 2024, Le Coq Sportif reveals the athletes’ outfits during the competition.
Draw for the Marathon for All
End of January 2024: draw for participants in the Marathon for All
Chaumet unveils the Olympic medals
Early February 2024: French jewelry house Chaumet unveils the Olympic medals
D-200 before the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
February 10, 2024
The Street League Skateboarding Championship Tour at the adidas arena
February 24, 2024: 1st big meeting at the adidas arena (renamed Arena La Chapelle during the Paris 2024 Games) with the Street League Skateboarding (SLC) Championship Tour
Draw for Olympic football tournaments
March 20, 2024: draw for the Olympic football tournaments (women’s and men’s)
Olympic and Paralympic week
April 2 to 6, 2024
Saint-Denis Aquatic Center
April 4, 2024: inauguration of the Saint-Denis Aquatic Center which hosts the Olympic artistic swimming, diving and water polo events
D-100 before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
April 17, 2024
opening of the official resale platform
Children and Youth Olympiad
April 1 to June 20, 2024
Museum Night 2024
May 18, 2024
D-100 before the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
May 20, 2024
White Night 2024
June 1, 2024: Overseas and sport in the spotlight
Amateur Olympiad
June 21 to 23, 2024: as part of the Music Festival and Olympic Day 2024
Opening of the France Club
July 14, 2024: at Paris City Hall
Football and rugby tournaments
July 24, 2024: start of competition for football and rugby tournaments
Experience the Paris Games during the Games
During the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, visitors are invited to come together to celebrate this major event thanks to the numerous celebration sites in Paris, Île-de-France and France and the various free activities open to all. In total, nearly 200 celebration sites accessible free of charge throughout France. With or without tickets to attend the events, experience the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games to the fullest!
Opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games
July 26, 2024: on the Seine
Paris 2024 Olympic Games
July 26 to August 11, 2024
Closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
August 11, 2024: at the Stade de France
Opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
August 28, 2024: on Place de la Concorde. Reopening of Club France
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
August 28 to September 8, 2024
Closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
September 8, 2024: at the Stade de France
The Trocadéro Champions Park
CHAMPIONS PARK – BROADCAST OF THE GRAND FINALS EVENING Paris olympics 2024
From July 29 to August 10, 2024 (except from August 2 to 4, 2024), this is the place to be for sports fans. Located opposite the Eiffel Tower, the Champions Park welcomes medal-winning athletes to celebrate their victory with the public. The medal celebration, consisting of a parade of the previous day’s medal-winning athletes, takes place every day, as does the live broadcast of the grand finals on the program. The experience continues with artistic and cultural performances in this open-air arena.
Champions Park opening hours: 4 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Athletes’ Parade: 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Broadcast of the grand finals: 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
Club France in La Villette park
From July 27 to August 11, then from August 29 to September 8, 2024, the Parc de La Villette and its Grande Halle welcome the Club France. It is THE place dedicated to supporters of the French team: we follow their exploits, we meet the French medalists, we discover and practice new sporting disciplines…
Hours of Club France de La Villette: 10 a.m. – 2 a.m.
2024 Clubs will be distributed throughout France: Châteauroux, Nantes, Marseille, Lille… in order to experience the Paris 2024 Games throughout France
Georges-Valbon Park in La Courneuve
The department of Seine-Saint-Denis is at the heart of the program for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games thanks to the major competition sites spread across its territory, including the Stade de France, the Aquatics Center, the Bourget climbing site and the ‘Arena Paris Nord. It is natural that the department hosts one of the major celebration sites for the Paris 2024 Games installed in the Georges-Valbon park in La Courneuve. The 3rd largest park in Île-de-France by its surface area has a giant screen, a program of concerts (including 6 exceptional evenings), workshops, activities and artistic events, offers the practice of sporting activities and parasports, an 80 meter high skyliner for a spectacular ascent and a diverse range of catering options. It is also from Georges-Valbon Park that the grand start of the Para marathon takes place, on Sunday September 8, 2024.
From July 25 to August 11, 2024 (except Monday and Tuesday) and from September 6 to 8, 2024
Hours: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and until midnight on exceptional evenings
The Paris festival celebrates the Games: the festivities in Paris
The French capital is transformed into a huge playground during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games with Paris celebrates the Games! Sports activities, cultural events, broadcast of the events, catering areas await visitors on the many festivities sites of Paris Fête Jeux. The Town Hall square is one of the emblematic sites hosting the events of Paris celebrates the Games. Paris Plages 2024 – Rives de Seine Park, Bassin de la Villette, Canal Saint-Martin – is also preparing to wear the colors of Paris 2024. Festivities open to all, free, popular, family and festive, in the heart of Parisian districts.
