The Patrouille de France flies over Paris this Wednesday, August 20, here's why

Published by Cécile de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on August 20, 2025 at 11:16 a.m. · Published on August 18, 2025 at 07:17 p.m.
The Patrouille de France planes are scheduled to fly over the capital this Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 3pm: the French air force's acrobatic pilots pay tribute to the "forgotten holidaymakers".

If you look up this Wednesday, August 20, 2025, you'll see the Patrouille de France flying over Paris. Nine aircraft are scheduled to fly over the capital on the occasion of the "Journée des oubliés des vacances", a solidarity event organized by Secours Populaire for over 45 years.

The " Journée des oubliés des vacances " was created in 1979 by the French association, to support those who can't afford to go on summer vacations. Held every year at the end of August, the day features numerous outings and activities for children from the families concerned.

Workshops, sports demonstrations, games and even karaoke - thousands of children enjoy this festive day of solidarity, thanks to our volunteers and partners. In Paris, for example, on August 20, 2025, the children invited can visit the Musée du Quai Branly, the Château de Versailles, France miniature, the Jardin des Plantes, the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace, the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle, the Panthéon...

To make the day even more special, the Patrouille de France is scheduled to fly over Paris: at around 3 p.m., the planes are expected to follow " a trajectory along the North-East/South-West axis, including a loop around the Eiffel Tower. " In the morning, at around 11:15, two of these aircraft will be on a rehearsal flight, so you've got two chances to admire the acrobats of the French Air Force.

A show not to be missed if you're a fan of aviation, and a solidarity initiative to support for the happiness of the youngest: this Wednesday August 20 should be full of pleasant surprises for Parisians.

If you're looking for free activities to do with friends or family this summer in Paris, check out our dedicated guides.

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
On August 20, 2025

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