Paris Olympics opening ceremony: Start time, where to watch and what to expect

As a seasoned movie reviewer and a lifelong admirer of the Olympic Games, I am thrilled to witness Paris 2024’s innovative opening ceremony. The French, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and exquisite creations, are about to outdo themselves with this unique waterborne spectacle.

I’m excitedly counting down the days as Paris 2024 officially kicks off this Friday! The French, renowned for their delectable cheeses, exquisite haute couture, and an abundance of other extraordinary creations, are set to amaze us with what could very well be the most distinctive opening ceremony in Olympic Games history. I can hardly wait to witness their unique blend of culture and innovation unfold before my eyes!

Instead of the traditional indoor opening ceremony in a stadium, an unprecedented water celebration will unfold on the River Seine. Paris, known for its stunning beauty, will serve as the dynamic backdrop as thousands of athletes from worldwide journey by boat. A captivating flotilla parade will navigate through Paris’ heart at sunset, commencing at Austerlitz Bridge and passing iconic sites such as the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Each boat will be outfitted with cameras, allowing spectators to witness athletes closely as they glide along the Seine. The route spans nearly four miles westward, concluding at Trocaderó where the remaining ceremony awaits in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Thomas Jolly, an accomplished theater director, is planning a grandiose event with a rumored budget of $150 million. Details about the ceremony are scarce, yet it’s known to consist of twelve scenes influenced by French history. Lady Gaga and Celine Dion have been seen in Paris recently, fueling rumors of their involvement, but their performance at the event is unconfirmed. The unprecedented scale of this occasion has raised various concerns – from security and weather conditions to the potential presence of waste in the Seine. This week, a large group of dancers threatened to disrupt the ceremony due to wage disputes, but the strike was later called off.

Based on the current arrangements, the event is scheduled to commence at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time or 10:30 a.m. Pacific Time. For viewers in America, they can tune in live on NBC or Peacock. The ceremony will be overseen by NBC commentator Mike Tirico, singer Kelly Clarkson, and former NFL player Peyton Manning – none of whom hail from France.

Join Times writers Mary McNamara and Meredith Blake as they weigh in on the audacious spectacle.

Read More

• Cookie Run: Kingdom Pure Vanilla Cookie (Compassionate) Guide: How to unlock, Best Toppings, and more
• Reverse 1999 Willow Build Guide: Best Team, Psychubes, and more
• Cookie Run: Kingdom Black Sapphire Cookie Guide: How to unlock, Best Toppings, and more
• MAFS Star’s Secret Split
• Slime Castle redeem codes and how to use them (September 2024)
• Cookie Run: Kingdom Candy Apple Cookie Guide: How to unlock, Best Toppings, and more
• Classic ’80s movie is finally getting sequel – and fans will be delighted
• Limbus Company Gift Fusion Guide — All EGO Fusion Gifts
• Monster Hunter Wilds director thinks the weapon balance is much closer this time: “They’re all hopefully nearly as viable as each other,” but he’s “confident, not cocky”
• Previously-perfect returning show gets mixed reaction as viewers rush to watch new episodes

2024-07-26 20:01