The start of the Euro 2016 football tournament, with its bandwagon of players, fans and media, presents a major security headache for the French authorities who are still grappling with a state of emergency, reports FRANCE 24.
The country remains on high alert in the wake of the November 13th terror attacks, which included suicide bombings outside the Stade de France stadium north of Paris.
Security will be especially tight at the official "fan zone" at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, where up to 90,000 fans at a time will come to enjoy the atmosphere and sporting action.
With its giant screens, restaurants and a concert hall, the Paris fan zone resembles a small town. Similar venues have been set up in the nine other cities hosting football matches.
Critics fear the concentration of people gathered in one place will present would-be terrorists with a soft target.
They note that months of street protests and the continued terrorist threat mean security forces are stretched exceptionally thin.
But officials say every possible step has been taken to ensure fans can feel safe, while also enjoying the football party.