This summer, Paris underwent a noteworthy transformation as it transitioned from the City of Light to the city of the Olympic Games, captivating the world with its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. As a student interning in Paris, I had the privilege of witnessing the city’s grand makeover as it prepared to host the 2024 Olympic Games. From the construction of stadiums to the elaborate opening ceremony, Paris embraced its new role as the epicenter of Olympic history.

The 2024 Games marked the third time that Paris had hosted the Olympics, but this time, the city had expanded into a global hub for business and tourism. As I navigated the bustling streets of Paris, I observed the city undergo a remarkable transformation to accommodate the influx of athletes, spectators, and dignitaries.

Small stadiums began to take shape in the city center, and spectator seating lined the scenic banks of the Seine. However, the most notable change occurred when several central bridges connecting the left and right banks were closed, disrupting the usual flow of traffic and marking the beginning of a city-wide transformation. The arrival of heavily armed members of the French National Guard and the construction of new arenas further solidified the city’s readiness to welcome the world.

As summer unfolded, Paris unveiled delightful surprises, from the stunning drone visuals of sports during the Bastille Day fireworks to Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s symbolic swim in the Seine to demonstrate the river’s cleanliness for the triathlon events. The city was alive with anticipation and excitement for the upcoming Games.

The grandeur of the opening ceremony set the stage for the Olympic events to come, featuring a river-cruise-style spectacle and a powerful closing performance by Celine Dion. I was thrilled to attend the beach volleyball and men’s gymnastics team finals, witnessing hard-fought matches and historic victories. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators from around the world coming together to celebrate the spirit of the Games.

Princeton’s presence in the Olympic Games added a special touch to the events, with Maia Weintraub ’26 winning a gold medal in women’s team foil fencing and 25 other Princeton students past and present competing in various events. It was a proud moment for the university and a testament to the talent and dedication of its athletes.

Ultimately, the 2024 Olympic Games transformed my summer in Paris into an unforgettable experience. The city exceeded expectations, delivering a spectacle that captured the world’s imagination. As the Games came to a close, Paris returned to its picturesque charm, leaving behind memories of a summer filled with Olympic dreams.

By Edward Rogers, a staff writer for The Prospect from Durham, North Carolina. He can be reached at [email protected].

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