The word was out that there was going to be a countdown on the the main French avenue, Champs Élysées. By 11:00 p.m., the people had come to populate the wide avenue, which had been closed to traffic, to celebrate the coming of the new year, 2015. This was going to be a first. In previous years people gathered here just to hang out and drink their champagne to celebrate the new year with their friends. This year, there was a production to look forward to.
While in New York - at Times Square, the glitter ball is always much awaited; over the Thames River in London and the Sydney Opera House, spectacular firework displays provide the countdown festivities for the coming new year. This year, Paris has landed to be counted among the best places in the world to celebrate the new year's eve countdown in a grand way.
The trek towards the Arc de Triomphe - to get there as close as possible.
As soon as the arc disappeared from sight, a round of applause signaled the start of the show.
Cameras and smartphones were held up high to catch the changing scenes on the arc, which was used as the screen.
A fifteen-minute video show started, showing the highlights of Paris' iconic places and symbols, reflecting the Parisian "art of living." There was also a focus on the environment, as France is scheduled to host the International Climate Change Summit in 2015.
The pyramid on the Louvre grounds
Centre Pompidou
Metro map
When the fireworks came on, there was a cheer from the crowd - 2015 had arrived!
Fireworks displays, normally, are expected during the annual celebration of Bastille Day.
It was time to uncork the champagne bottles - cheers to the new year!
With this, the countdown was over.
As the strove lights went on, the people began to disperse.
To continue with the new year's day celebration, a parade - with a circus theme - with fanfare bands and floats, will be held at the Champs Élysées, at 2:00 p.m. This will be something, especially, for families to enjoy. The parade will commence from Place de la Concord.
Here's wishing you all a joyeux nouvelle année!
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