The Paris avenue traditionally hosting a large public New Year's Eve gathering and countdown is the Champs-Élysées.
The avenue runs through central Paris from the Place de la Concorde toward the Arc de Triomphe. On New Year's Eve, crowds have traditionally gathered along it to celebrate, watch a midnight countdown and see visual displays projected around the Arc de Triomphe when city authorities organize them.
Paris celebrations can change because of security planning, weather, transport restrictions and other official decisions. A gathering on the Champs-Élysées should therefore not be confused with a guaranteed fireworks display: the city's New Year's program has often emphasized projections, light shows or fireworks at different landmarks and in different years.
The avenue's ceremonial role predates modern countdown parties. Its broad perspective, monumental architecture and central location make it a natural setting for national celebrations, parades and major public events throughout the year.