The opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics on July 26, was a historic and spectacular event, the first of its kind to be held outside a stadium, the ceremony took place along the Seine River, transforming Paris into a grand stage. Athletes paraded on boats along a 6-kilometer route, almost 100 boats carried an estimated 10,500 athletes. Larger national teams had boats to themselves, while smaller teams shared boats, starting from the Austerlitz Bridge and passing by iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Louvre, before concluding at the Trocadéro near the Eiffel Tower.
The event featured a diverse array of performances, including those by artists Gojira, Aya Nakamura, spectacular perfomance by Celine Dion, Lady Gaga delivered a memorable performance by singing the French song "Mon truc en plumes" ("My thing in feathers") by Zizi Jeanmaire. Her act was noted for its visual impact, with Gaga surrounded by a lot of pink, adding to the vibrant and festive atmosphere of the ceremony.
The ceremony was praised for its innovative concept and visual spectacle. Choreographer Maud Le Pladec led 400 dancers, with 3,000 performers in total, all wearing unique costumes designed by Daphne Burki, who emphasized sustainability through vintage and upcycled pieces.
Around 300,000 spectators attended the ceremony, with 100,000 holding paid tickets on the lower quays and 200,000 enjoying free access on the upper banks. The event was also broadcast on 80 giant screens across Paris, ensuring that even those without tickets could partake in the celebration.
This is the best opening ceremony I have ever seen, Merci beaucoup France!
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