Get ready for some thrilling news: the spectacular hot-air balloon that bore the Olympic flame during the 2024 Summer Olympics is returning to Paris this summer! French President Emmanuel Macron recently confirmed that this cherished attraction will light up the Parisian skies each summer, leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Return of La Vasque
After capturing the imagination of many during its debut, the hot-air balloon, known as La Vasque, will once again take to the skies at the stunning Jardin des Tuileries, right next to the iconic Louvre Museum.
This cauldron, which proudly represented the Olympic and Paralympic flames, has become a beloved feature of the Paris landscape.
Mark your calendars for June 21! That’s when the balloon is expected to rise into the Paris skyline, coinciding with the vibrant celebrations of Fête de la Musique, and it will remain floating above the city until September 14, in recognition of National Sports Day.
Although we await official confirmation on these dates, the plan is for this breathtaking spectacle to appear in the skies over Paris each summer leading up to the much-anticipated Los Angeles Games.
Enthusiasm and Preparation
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo enthusiastically shared her delight on social media, celebrating the cauldron’s return and its vital role in honoring the legacy of the Paris Games for future generations.
On the ground, Matthieu Gobi, co-founder of Aerophile, the team responsible for the balloon, expressed excitement about its upcoming return.
He noted that preparations are in full swing, even as they work to finalize some logistical details and secure funding for the event.
A Tribute to History
The hot-air balloon was a standout during the 2024 Games, partly because it paid homage to the Montgolfier brothers, who pioneered manned hot-air balloon flights in Paris back in 1783.
Their hydrogen-filled balloon had its inaugural flight right from the Jardin des Tuileries.
One of the most mesmerizing aspects of the cauldron was the way it created the illusion of a flickering flame, combining mist and LED lights as it soared up to 60 meters above the city, enchanting countless spectators along the picturesque River Seine.
During the Olympic Games, the balloon’s popularity meant that visitors often needed to book well in advance, as slots filled up quickly.
However, plans are underway to implement new systems ensuring that future visitors can enjoy this magical experience amidst the beauty of Paris.
As each summer unfolds, the hot-air balloon promises to transform the Parisian skyline once more, inviting cheers and inspiration to everyone lucky enough to witness its splendor.