The Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony will be a never-before-seen spectacle that fans across the world will not want to miss.
For the first time in the history of the Olympic Summer Games, the ceremony is set to be held outside of a stadium. This year, the ritual will take place along the famous River Seine, Paris' main water artery.
Almost 100 boats carrying approximately 10,500 athletes will float along a four-mile stretch of the river that winds past several of the city’s famous landmarks including the Louvre, Notre Dame cathedral and Pont Neuf. The parade route will finish at the Trocadero - a promenade that sits across from the Eiffel Tower - where the 2024 Games will be officially declared open.
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Thomas Jolly - the French theatre director and actor who is serving as the ceremony’s artistic director - hasn’t provided many details about what entertainment acts may be in store. But the 42-year-old divulged his desire to showcase the many cultures present in France.
"I’d like to show France in all its diversity. Illustrate the richness and plurality shaped by its history, which has been influenced and inspired by the diverse cultures that have passed through it, while itself serving as a source of inspiration," he said.
Ceremonies choreographer Maud Le Pladec, meanwhile, will be in charge of 400 dancers who are expected to be stationed at every bridge that goes over the parade route.
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On Monday, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced that LeBron James would be carrying the American flag for Team USA during the opening ceremony. The Los Angeles Lakers star was given the privilege after winning a vote conducted by almost 600 U.S. athletes.
"It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together," James said. "For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with big aspirations. Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment."
Below, Mirror U.S. Sports tells you everything you need to know about the opening ceremony at the Paris Olympics.
When is the Paris Olympics opening ceremony?
The ceremony will kick off on Friday, July 26 at 7:30 p.m. in Paris, aka 1:30 p.m. ET. Coverage of the event will begin an hour-and-a-half earlier.
How to watch the Paris Olympics opening ceremony
The ceremony will be broadcast live on NBC, and will additionally be available to stream on Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, NBC.com, NBC app and NBC Olympics app.
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