A striking balloon that became a symbol of the 2024 Paris Olympics returned to the skies on Saturday evening, coinciding with the city's annual street music festival.
Floating once again above the Tuileries garden, the balloon marked the beginning of its new seasonal display, set to appear each evening until September 14.
Last year, the balloon gained international attention as it carried the Olympic cauldron—an electrified ring of fire—through the summer sky at sunset. Designed by French artist Mathieu Lehanneur, the original version was intended to last only for the duration of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
However, following a decision by President Emmanuel Macron, the balloon has been brought back, with technical updates ensuring its continued operation. "The worst thing would have been for this memory to become a sitting relic that couldn't fly anymore," Lehanneur told AFP.
The upgraded version of the balloon, developed by French energy giant EDF and the Aerophile group, uses a patented decarbonated flame system. It now boasts an improved lifespan—capable of operating for 300 days rather than the original 30—and features enhanced technology that animates its iconic flame effect with light and mist.
According to EDF's director of innovation, Julien Villeret, the balloon remains visually unchanged despite internal improvements. The system beneath the cauldron includes a machine room with cables, a compressor, and a hydro-electric winch to control the helium-filled balloon’s ascent and descent.
Containing 6,200 cubic meters of helium, the balloon can lift about three tonnes, including its supporting equipment, explained Jerome Giacomoni, president of Aerophile.
The Tuileries garden was chosen not only for its central location but also for its historical significance—French inventor Jacques Charles launched a gas balloon from the site in 1783, following the Montgolfier brothers’ early balloon flights.
Visitors can check the balloon’s daily schedule and weather-related updates on the official website, vasqueparis2024.fr.
