Opening ceremony

Why the Paris Opening Ceremony is an Olympian Spectacle Like No Other!

Get ready to be wowed! The Paris 2024 Olympics is ditching the stadium for a mesmerizing ceremony on the Seine. Here’s what to expect!

As Paris gets ready to welcome the world for the 2024 Olympics, all eyes are on the spectacular opening ceremony. Traditionally, these grand spectacles have taken place in the confines of stadiums, but this time, the City of Light has opted for a breathtakingly unique approach: a parade along the iconic River Seine. On early Saturday morning, New Zealand time, 6,800 athletes from around the globe will ride in boats as part of an event dubbed the ‘Sporting Armada,’ ensuring that the city itself serves as the magnificent backdrop to this Olympic debut.

The opening ceremony will officially kick off the Summer Games, with festivities and excitement already buzzing around France. As the procession unfolds along the Seine, spectators will experience a side of competition and camaraderie only the Parisian landscape can offer. While the athletes make their way, we can expect stunning performances, glittering floats, and the irresistible French flair that makes everything just a tad more magical. Not to mention, the legendary LeBron James and the rest of Team USA are slated to make an unforgettable grand entrance!

For those wondering how they can catch the action, there’s good news! The ceremony will be streamed on Peacock, and with the time difference, keen fans in New Zealand can set their alerts for a fabulous kick-off. If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the Olympics in person, this is as close to the real deal as you can get without being a competing athlete. Root for your country and revel in the joy of this historic event, right from the comfort of your couch.

And if that wasn't enough to get you excited, here’s another fun fact: This is the first time in Olympic history that the opening ceremony will take place outside a stadium! How’s that for innovation? In a move to make the event accessible to a larger audience, organizers anticipate that up to 600,000 spectators can line the banks of the Seine—a party that cannot be missed! So grab your snacks and get ready for a night of thrilling spectacles, showcasing the beauty of sports like never before!

As the world comes together in celebration of athleticism and unity, let’s remember that the spirit of the Olympics lies in connection. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan, or just someone who loves a good party (how else do you think they decided to float a parade down a river?), this year promises to be an extraordinary chapter in Olympic history!