In the 1860s, Paris became the first city in the world to illuminate its streets with more than 56,000 gas lamps. Bathed in this new and reassuring glow, the city earned its now-famous nickname, the “City of Light” — a symbol of warmth, safety and humanity, and a tribute to the spirit of the Enlightenment.
It is from this heritage that Sofitel draws the inspiration for its Candle Ritual: a graceful ceremony that marks the passage from day to night, as the gentle glow of candlelight envelops each space in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Candle Ritual at the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg
At the Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, the ritual unfolds as a poetic, almost dreamlike moment. Inspired by the elegant, surreal and sensitive universe of Jean Cocteau — a distinguished guest of the hotel — it reimagines the symbols of hospitality.
A white-gloved butler, a reception bell, a silver tray… yet the service offered is one of light. The gesture becomes ceremony, and hospitality transforms into a delicate performance.
As the first notes of the iconic song Sous le ciel de Paris begin to play, the atmosphere shifts. The lights soften. A Candle Maestro appears, carrying candles on a silver tray.
At the gentle ring of the bell, the ritual begins. As the maestro passes, lanterns come to life as if by magic. With each chime, the ritual is passed along: to the bellman who lights the lanterns outside, to the bartender illuminating the bar tables, and finally to the maître d’ in the restaurant.
Step by step, the light is offered throughout the house — from the lobby to the street, from the bar to the restaurant staircase, which glows in turn. The house awakens to the night.
At last, the restaurant doors open and the light enters, heralding the hour of dinner, soft conversations and the Parisian night.
One final ring of the bell. The ritual is complete. Welcome to the Parisian night.
We invite you to join us every evening at 6 pm in the lobby to witness the Candle Ritual.
