After more than a year of silence, the iconic windmill of the Moulin Rouge is spinning once more, restoring the cabaret’s legendary silhouette and charm. Nestled at the foot of Montmartre, this Parisian landmark has made a symbolic return to the spotlight.

An Evening of Light, Music, and Emotion

On Thursday evening, just before 11 p.m., new blades—over twelve meters in diameter—began to turn atop the Moulin Rouge. The installation of a brand-new electric motor marked not only a technical milestone but also an emotional moment for many. The cabaret’s troupe, led by 60 dancers, performed a short outdoor number. Several hundred spectators watched the revival of the symbol with awe and delight.

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A Sudden Fall and Symbolic Loss

This celebration comes more than a year after the unexpected incident in April 2024, when the iconic windmill blades suddenly fell during the night, also bringing down part of the neon sign on the façade. While no one was injured, the event shocked locals and raised concerns about the future of one of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks.

Despite the technical mishap, the cabaret never closed its doors. Shows continued on schedule, preserving the spirit of Moulin Rouge, even without its signature rooftop feature.

A Legendary Return Rooted in Tradition

General Director Jean-Victor Clerico emphasized the importance of restoring the blades not only for the cabaret but for the entire identity of Paris. From now on, the renewed windmill will turn every day from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., reminding both locals and tourists of the timeless spirit of performance that has defined the venue for over a century.

A Timeless Show Without Interruption

Since its grand opening on October 6, 1889, Moulin Rouge has remained a magnet for audiences from around the world. Renowned for its cancan performances—made famous through Jacques Offenbach’s operettas. The cabaret remains one of the most visited cultural institutions in Paris, drawing around 600,000 guests annually.

With a cast of 90 artists from 18 countries, the Moulin Rouge continues to offer two dazzling shows daily, 365 days a year. Feathers, rhinestones, and sequins whirl across the stage in a glamorous spectacle that never stops. It is just like the legendary windmill above it.

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