Thousands of Parisians and tourists from all over the world look forward to the annual illuminations of the Champs-Élysées. This Sunday, November 24, 2024, the world's most beautiful avenue was decked out in lights, officially launching the festive season. A blend of tradition, emotion and modernity, the evening offered a magical spectacle that will live long in the memory.
From 5pm onwards, the first spectators began to flock to the avenue, which was exceptionally pedestrianized for the occasion. The Champs-Élysées, which links the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde, was already immersed in a festive atmosphere. The famous Band'à Leo, a hundred-strong brass band from the Landes region of France, took to the avenue, playing upbeat tunes that warmed hearts despite the chill in the air. DJ Marine Neuilly then took over with a musical set that had the crowd on their feet, already looking forward to the highlight of the show.
At around 6.30pm, the VIPs began to arrive on the stage set up in the center of the avenue. Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of Paris, accompanied by Tony Estanguet, godfather of this edition and President of Paris 2024, greeted the crowd. Alongside them, Tessa and Ophélia, two young girls followed by the Petits Princes association, were present to make their dream of taking part in this unique event come true. This symbolic act of inclusion and generosity moved the spectators, reminding them that this evening is also a moment of sharing and hope.
At precisely 7.35pm, the long-awaited moment arrived. After an enthusiastic countdown chanted by the thousands of spectators in attendance, Tony Estanguet, flanked by Anne Hidalgo, Tessa and Ophélia, pressed the buzzer. In a fraction of a second, the 400 trees lining the Champs-Élysées lit up, displaying thousands of twinkling lights in a magical choreography. The Olympic anthem rang out, adding an extra touch of emotion to an evening that also celebrated the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games held in Paris this summer. Tony Estanguet, visibly moved, took the floor to thank the organizers and recall the festive spirit that marked this exceptional year for the capital. “Paris has been a party with the Games, and tonight we're extending that magic,” he declared. Anne Hidalgo, for her part, praised the participation of the many tourists and Parisians, saying that the event was a real showcase for the magic of Christmas and the capital's attractiveness.
This year's illuminations are part of an environmentally-friendly approach, while preserving the sparkle of the avenue. The avenue's 400 trees are decorated with LED lights, significantly reducing energy consumption compared with previous years. Every evening, the illuminations will go out at midnight, except on the evenings of December 24 and 31, when they will shine all night long to celebrate New Year's Eve. Another key symbol of this year's event is the giant fir tree installed near the Arc de Triomphe. Standing 13.5 metres tall, this majestic tree is reusable, testifying to the city's commitment to reconciling festivities and sustainability. Marc-Antoine Jamet, president of the Champs-Élysées committee, welcomed this new approach, saying that the event must evolve with the times while preserving its magical spirit.
Last year, over 430,000 people attended the illuminations, and organizers hope to exceed that figure this year. Until the beginning of January, thousands of visitors will continue to come and admire this mythical avenue, a symbol of the magic of the festive season in Paris. The illuminations on the Champs-Élysées are not just a Parisian event, they are a true symbol of Christmas magic on a global scale. Every year, millions of people discover these images that showcase the City of Light. Combining tradition and innovation, this year's ceremony perfectly embodied the festive spirit and dynamism of Paris, city of arts, culture and celebration.
Closing the evening with a performance by singer Santa, the Champs-Élysées proved once again that they are much more than just an avenue. They are the stage for a magic that brings people together, moves and amazes, reminding us that Christmas is above all a celebration of sharing and light.
You can see our photos on our official Flickr page
Photos and videos: Boris Colletier / Mulderville