The Paris Olympics 2024 has officially begun with a bang, as the opening ceremony took place on the Seine River on Friday, July 26, marking the first time in Olympics history that the ceremony has taken place outside a traditional stadium setting.
Despite rainy conditions, thousands of athletes from around the world made their debut in a boat-based Parade of Nations, led by flagbearers Coco Gauff and LeBron James, who are the first tennis player and basketball player to score the gigs.
The ceremony featured many celebrity performers, including Lady Gaga, who expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to perform on Instagram.
Céline Dion also made a triumphant return to the stage, singing Hymne à L'amour as a hot-air balloon-shaped cauldron rose into the air.
Many remarkable athletes helped take the Olympic torch over the finish line, including iconic French soccer player Zinedine Zidane, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Carl Lewis.
Meanwhile, Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, addressed the gathered athletes and onlookers.
Among many splendid moments, a little mishap also took place as the Olympic flag was raised incorrectly, with the green and yellow rings appearing at the top instead of the bottom.
Colin Jost documented the opening ceremony on his Instagram Stories.
Moreover, Today show co-anchors Hoda Kotb and Savannah Guthrie braved the wet weather to report from the Seine, along with other big names like Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and Kelly Clarkson.
The ceremony was a tribute to French history and culture, marking the beginning of 16 days of competition, starting from July 26 to August 11.
