Ready to witness the Parisian icon in its most magical state? The Eiffel Tower’s nighttime illumination is a sight to behold, a symphony of light that transforms the Iron Lady into a glittering star.
When Does the Eiffel Tower Light Up?
As darkness falls, the Eiffel Tower transforms into a beacon of light. The golden spotlights illuminate the structure’s intricate design, casting a warm glow across the Parisian skyline. But the show doesn’t stop there! For five minutes at the start of every hour, the Tower bursts into a mesmerizing display of twinkling lights, known as “sparkles.” This enchanting spectacle starts at nightfall and continues until the monument closes for the night.
Picture this: you’re strolling through the City of Lights, and the Eiffel Tower emerges from the twilight, its majestic form bathed in a golden sheen. The anticipation builds as the hour approaches, and then, like magic, the Tower bursts into a dazzling display of sparkling lights. It’s a moment that captures the essence of Paris, both romantic and awe-inspiring.
When Does the Eiffel Tower’s Show End?
The Eiffel Tower’s dazzling display reaches its peak at 11:00 PM when the final “sparkles” cascade down the tower, illuminating the night sky. Typically, the lights are extinguished when the Tower closes at 11:45 PM. However, during the warmer months and French holiday periods, the Tower stays open later, closing at 12:45 AM. This means the sparkles continue until 1:00 AM, with the golden lighting and beacon turning off at that time. Even after the main lights dim, the Tower continues to sparkle for a few minutes, adding to the magic of the night.
Where to Experience the Eiffel Tower’s Illumination
For the ultimate experience, head to the Eiffel Tower itself! Witnessing the Tower’s illumination from within its own structure is a truly unforgettable experience. Ascend the stairs or take the elevator to the second floor and look up at the sparkling spire. The ambiance is truly magical! If you’re curious about the beacon, take a trip to the top and admire its rotating beams.
But you don’t have to be at the Tower to enjoy its magnificent display! Many places in Paris and the surrounding region offer breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower bathed in light. The Trocadéro esplanade and the Champ de Mars are particularly renowned for their stunning perspectives of the Tower and its captivating light show.
How the Eiffel Tower’s Golden Lighting Works
The Eiffel Tower’s iconic golden lighting was inaugurated on December 31, 1985. Designed by lighting engineer Pierre Bideau, the system utilizes 336 spotlights equipped with yellow-orange high-pressure sodium bulbs. These lights were met with widespread acclaim, paving the way for the illumination of other monuments around the world.
The beams of light shine upwards from the Tower’s interior, highlighting its intricate metal structure. These spotlights replaced the previous system of 1,290 exterior lights, offering a more refined and impactful illumination. Beyond enhancing the Tower’s beauty, the golden lighting is also essential for safety and security.
The Eiffel Tower’s Beacon and Sparkles: A Symphony of Light
On December 31, 1999, the world was introduced to the Eiffel Tower’s beacon and sparkles. This extraordinary addition to the Tower’s nighttime spectacle added another dimension to its already breathtaking display.
The beacon, visible for 50 miles, is composed of four powerful marine-style floodlights. These lights are computer-controlled, creating a mesmerizing cross-shaped double beam that rotates 360°. Their intense 6000W xenon bulbs are designed for longevity, lasting approximately 1,200 hours. The lighting heads are equipped with ventilation systems to prevent overheating, and a heating system activates when the temperature drops below 32°F. The beacon, a symbolic representation of the original beacon designed by Gustave Eiffel, serves as a universal guide, illuminating the night sky with its powerful presence.
Pierre Bideau, the mastermind behind the golden lighting, also created the Tower’s sparkles. Over 20,000 low-power bulbs were strategically placed on the Tower’s four sides, creating a dazzling display of random twinkling lights. The sparkles illuminate the Tower for five minutes at the beginning of each hour, adding a touch of magic and enchantment to the Parisian skyline.
