Opening Ceremonies

The modern Olympic opening ceremony has evolved significantly from its ancient roots. In ancient Greece, the games were inaugurated with a festival and an oath of sportsmanship, but lacked many of the traditions we see today. The first modern Games in Athens in 1896 featured a ceremony, but the formal protocol that distinguishes the event today was established gradually over several decades. Key elements were introduced over time: the parade of nations with Greece leading and the host nation at the rear became tradition in 1908, the Olympic flag and athlete's oath were introduced in 1920, the Olympic flame was first lit in a stadium in 1928, and the torch relay as we know it today began in 1936.

Today, the ceremony is a grand spectacle governed by the Olympic Charter, combining mandatory protocol elements with a unique artistic program that showcases the host nation's culture and history. Beyond the parade of athletes, official speeches, the raising of the Olympic flag, and the taking of oaths, the ceremony's emotional peak remains the finale of the torch relay and the dramatic lighting of the Olympic cauldron, symbolizing peace and the official start of the Games. These elements work together to unite the world in the spirit of friendship and fair play, building global anticipation for the competition that follows.

For the LA28 Games, the opening ceremony will break tradition by being held across two iconic venues simultaneously: the LA Memorial Coliseum and the Stadium in Inglewood. This dual-venue approach is designed to accommodate the unique competition schedule, which has swapped the traditional order of athletics (track and field) and swimming events for the first time. The Coliseum will make history as the first venue to host events for three Olympic Games, while the Stadium in Inglewood will make its Olympic debut. This innovative approach aims to engage more fans across the sprawling Los Angeles area and leverage existing world-class infrastructure for a sustainable and unforgettable celebration of sport and entertainment.