On July 26, Paris kicked off the 2024 Summer Olympics with an extravagant opening ceremony that featured a hot-air balloon delivering a fiery Olympic ring into the sky. The event unfolded over four hours along the picturesque Seine River, where singer Celine Dion performed from the Eiffel Tower amid intermittent rain showers that did not dampen the athletes' spirits.

Athletes, some using umbrellas, traveled in boats along the river, showcasing camaraderie and resilience against the backdrop of an intense investigation into possible disruptions to the nation's rail service. The ambitious ceremony was closely watched by global leaders and audiences, transforming the city into a vibrant open-air theater dotted with performances near iconic landmarks, including the Louvre.

The ceremony included memorable moments such as the lighting of the Olympic cauldron by French athletes, Teddy Riner and Marie-Jose Perec, with homage to early aviation pioneers. USA beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng expressed her joy despite the rain, highlighting the magical atmosphere of the event.

As the show progressed, the energy remained high despite the weather, with spectators donning colorful attire and viewing stunning displays amid a mix of live and pre-recorded performances. Notably, a pianist continued playing his piece as puddles formed, while breakdancers took to a slick platform, revealing the event's unconventional spirit. Although some planned elements of the show were cut due to safety concerns, the overall display was magnificent and included a touch of humor with a short film featuring soccer legend Zinedine Zidane.

A joyful celebration of women was emphasized with the installation of golden statues representing female pioneers from history. This year marks a significant milestone for the Games, aiming for gender equality in athlete participation, with equal representation for men and women.

The ceremony’s logistics required meticulous planning, as thousands of athletes paraded on 85 boats over a distance of nearly four miles. Traditional order was maintained, starting with Greece, followed by refugee athletes and each nation in alphabetical order—an impressive sight illuminated by the historic Parisian backdrop.

As some attendees expressed frustration over the long wait to their seats, the grandeur of the city's landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, restated Notre Dame, and the majestic Louvre Museum captivated many. The show’s director, Thomas Jolly, skillfully intertwined the rich history of France with the essence of the Olympic spirit, aiming to rejuvenate Paris's image in the wake of past tragedies and showcase the ambition of the Games.

Remarkably, as security was heightened, large areas of central Paris were accessible only to those with passes, while airspace was restricted. The event successfully highlighted Paris's ability to present a unique Olympic experience, further ushering in a new era of exceptional sporting tradition in the heart of the city.