Commemoration of May 8, 2026: how to attend the Arc de Triomphe ceremony in Paris?

Under the Arc de Triomphe the Flame of Remembrance burns beside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: a flame that never goes out, paying tribute to all the French soldiers who have fallen in service to France and its values. It is around this symbol that various government and military representatives gather for the official commemorations of the major wars France has endured.

On 11 November, the 14 July, the 8 May, ceremonies are held beneath the Arc de Triomphe to pay tribute to the fighters. This event is open to everyone: curious spectators of all ages can come to watch the commemorations led by the President of the Republic, veterans’ associations, and military leaders.

• To be read
• This week's top picks in Paris and Île-de-France for May 4–10, 2026.

Thus, on May 8, 2026, a ceremony is being held at the Arc de Triomphe. The monument will be closed to visitors for the occasion, but the public can gather around the monument to observe the tributes and the rekindling of the flame. No reservation is required. However, arriving early is advised to pass any security checks and to secure a good viewing angle.

Here's the schedule for May 8 at the Arc de Triomphe:

• 11:00 a.m.: VE Day commemorations (Victory in Europe Day), May 8, 1945
  Special ceremony
  President of the Republic
  
  
• 6:30 p.m.: VE Day commemorations (Victory in Europe Day), May 8, 1945
  Remembrance ceremony
  Association of Veterans of the 2nd DB
  Histoire en Oisans (HISTOIRE EN OISANS)
  Maréchal Leclerc de Hauteclocque College (Beaucamps-le-Vieux, 80)

But note that on this May 8, several metro stations around Place de l'Étoile and the Champs-Élysées will be closed due to events planned for the holiday. Plan an alternate route to get here, and arrive early to secure a good spot to view the ceremony.

Commémoration of May 8 in Paris: the list of Metro stations closed this Friday
This Friday marks the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, May 8, 1945. On this occasion, several ceremonies will be held in the capital, notably near the Arc de Triomphe. To ensure the events run smoothly, the RATP has announced the closure of five Metro stations on line 1. Traffic will also be partially disrupted on line 6. Here’s what you need to know. [Read more]