Paris – June 16, 2026: The Olympic flame, symbol of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, will continue to illuminate the sky over the French capital from June 21 to September 14, 2026. Designer Mathieu Lehanneur created the 30-meter high and 7-meter wide structure to produce the illusion of real fire by using LED lights, mist nozzles, and fans without the use of real flames.
Originally designed as a temporary installation for the 2024 Olympic Games, the flame was adapted for continued use in the summer of 2025 due to its popularity and positive feedback from the public. Currently, the flame will be installed annually until 2028 at the Tuileries Garden to preserve the legacy of the games and to honor the values of sport and personal achievement.
The installation is located in the center of the large round water basin in the Tuileries Garden, a historic garden right in the heart of Paris. Visitors can view the flame daily from 10 a.m., while the garden opens at 7 a.m. The evening is particularly impressive when the flame blazes under the dark sky lights. The exact timing of the flame’s illumination varies depending on the day and weather conditions.
The return of the flame coincides with the annual music festival Fête de la Musique held on June 21 throughout France. Additionally, the flame is displayed until September 14, the anniversary of Fête du Sport – a new holiday initiated by President Emmanuel Macron to promote the role of sports in French society.
The decision to install the flame permanently during the summer months was made by the city of Paris and President Emmanuel Macron to preserve the Olympic heritage and reinforce the Olympic values within the city. The flame, operated by EDF and symbolizing sustainable energy, is used throughout the duration of the Games.
Those who wish to admire the flame up close can visit for free and without a reservation. However, it is recommended to follow official websites for updates on opening hours and special events.
The return of the Olympic flame to the Tuileries Garden is not only a spectacular visual sight but also an important cultural event, reflecting the city’s commitment to the values of the Olympic movement. It invites both locals and tourists to relive the magic of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and enjoy the beauty of this historic garden.