The opening ceremony for the Olympic Games in Paris 2024 is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 26, at 19:30 local time (17:30 GMT) and is expected to be a spectacular event that breaks from the traditions of previous Games. Instead of being held in an Olympic stadium, the ceremony will take place on the Seine River, which flows through the French capital.

Details about the ceremony are still under wraps, but organizers have promised a “bold and joyful” show. Over 10,500 athletes from around the world will participate, and a grand parade will lead them along the river in a 6 km procession, starting from the Austerlitz Bridge and concluding near the iconic Eiffel Tower, while passing famous landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Pont Neuf.

More than 300,000 spectators are expected to gather along the Seine, with 104,000 having purchased tickets, while 222,000 will receive free invitations. Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, describes the event as “a grand fresco” celebrating Paris, France, and the Olympic spirit, combining parade elements, artistic performances, and ceremonial features.

To ensure maximum safety during the event, 45,000 police officers will be present, alongside special intervention forces and snipers. Security measures have been heightened in light of increased concerns over potential threats, particularly given the current global security situation.

Participants will also have the opportunity to follow the action live via Al Jazeera, which has planned to report on the event with live commentary and visuals. Although there are general concerns about security during the Games, officials have stated that there are no specific threats against Friday evening’s ceremony.

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games promise to be an extraordinary and memorable event that will set new standards for how we celebrate sports and community in a city rich in history and culture.