Let’s Move & Celebrate! The Olympic Opening Ceremonies

It took a year longer than originally planned, but the Tokyo 2020 Opening Ceremony took place on 23 July 2021. With the theme 'Moving Forward: United by Emotion', the Opening Ceremony showcased Japan’s traditions, technology and hope for the world during the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the segment 'A Lasting Legacy: The Rhythm of Tradition', dancing carpenters created a giant version of the Olympic rings. The dancers wore traditional hanten – short winter coats worn by people during the Edo period (1603-1868). The rings were made from the wood of trees planted by athletes during the Olympic Games Tokyo 1964. 

Rio 2016 was the first edition of the Olympic Games in South America. The Opening Ceremonies, held in the legendary Maracanã Stadium on 5 August 2016, were bursting with music, celebration and colour. 

During the segment, 'Pop: Favela Voices' the Maracanã was transformed into a vibrant favela that celebrated the diversity of Brazilian culture. To the beat of popular Brazilian music, street dancers took turns exhibiting their different styles. They showcased how the favelas’ diverse communities have contributed to Brazil’s vibrant musical and dance culture.

London 2012’s Opening Ceremonies, entitled 'Isle of Wonder', was a spectacular celebration of British history, pop culture and achievements. Held on 27 July 2012, it was directed by Academy Award-winning British filmmaker Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire). 

The segment "Second to the right, and straight on till morning" honored both children's literature and the National Health Service (NHS), England’s publicly funded healthcare system. The dancers, almost all of whom are NHS workers, performed a lively jive routine. Performers included doctors, pharmacists, nurses, midwives, radiographers and social workers. 

The Beijing 2008 Opening Ceremony, directed by ZHANG Yimou, focused on China's greatest achievements over 5,000 years of history – including the compass, gunpowder, paper and printing. 

At the beginning of the ceremony, 2,008 drummers played ancient Chinese fou drums in a stunning synchronized performance The drummers also sang the line – “Isn’t it delightful to welcome friends from afar” – which comes from The Analects of Confucius, written 2,000 years ago.

The Athens 2004 Opening Ceremony was held on August 13, 2004 at the Olympic Stadium. It was a captivating homage to Greece's rich cultural and historical heritage, symbolizing the return of the Olympics to their birthplace.

During the 'Clepsydra' segment, a parade of stylised figures leapt out of Greek frescoes, mosaics, sculptures and paintings to trace Greek’s history from antiquity to modern times. The costumes used unexpected materials like paper, gauze and plastic. They were painted by hand to accurately reflect the originals.

For the first time in Olympic Summer Games' history, the Opening Ceremony will not take place in a stadium. Instead, Paris 2024 is hosting the ceremonies outdoors alongside the city’s main artery - the River Seine!

Discover more about this innovative ceremony in this video.

Celebrate the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on 26 July 2024, 19h30 (CET).