Paris is gearing up for the upcoming Paralympic Games, following the conclusion of the Olympics. Organizers are utilizing the time between events to prepare for various sports competitions, including wheelchair rugby and para athletics. Construction activities are bustling at the historic Place de la Concorde, which will host the opening ceremony for the Paralympics. Organizers are promising a groundbreaking spectacle with thousands of athletes and spectators in attendance. Most Olympic venues will remain in place, but will be repurposed for para equestrian events, wheelchair fencing, and blind football.
The goal for the Paralympics is to maintain the same level of enthusiasm that the Olympics brought to Paris. Both Paris 2024 and the International Paralympic Committee have launched a campaign titled “Game is not over,” to encourage locals to attend the Paralympic events. The city of Paris is quieter than usual in August, as many residents have gone on vacation. Streets are empty, and businesses are closed until September. However, some Parisians who have stayed in the city are taking advantage of the calm to relax and recharge after the hectic Olympic period.
The Parc Monceau, which hosted a lively fan zone during the Olympics, has now become a peaceful space for family activities. With fewer visitors, the fan zone is showing family-friendly movies and concerts on large screens instead of live sports. Despite efforts to keep the Olympic spirit alive, some residents are skeptical about Paris maintaining the festive atmosphere leading up to the Paralympics. Security measures are still in place, with armed police officers patrolling key areas. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced that 25,000 police officers will be deployed during the Paralympics, including the torch relay.
As Paris prepares for the Paralympic Games, the city is experiencing a lull after the excitement of the Olympics. Organizers are working hard to ensure a successful event, with various sports competitions planned throughout the city. The historic Place de la Concorde will host the opening ceremony, promising a groundbreaking spectacle for athletes and spectators. Despite the quieter streets, security remains a top priority, with armed police officers patrolling key areas. The city is focused on maintaining the enthusiasm generated by the Olympics and encouraging locals to attend the Paralympic events.
