Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony: A Grand Celebration of Inclusion and Athletic Excellence

On August 28, 2024, Paris will host its first-ever Paralympic Games, beginning with a breathtaking Opening Ceremony that promises to be a memorable spectacle. The event is set to start at 8:00 PM local time and will take place in two of Paris’s most iconic locations: Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées. This grand occasion will mark the beginning of 11 days of competition, featuring 4,400 Paralympic athletes from 184 delegations, all united to celebrate the spirit of the Games.

The ceremony, directed by Thomas Jolly, aims to highlight the remarkable achievements of Paralympic athletes and the values they represent. As the Artistic Director for the Olympic and Paralympic Ceremonies at Paris 2024, Jolly has emphasized that the concept behind this year’s ceremony is “a magnificent source of inspiration.” He promises a showcase of performances that have never been seen before, creating a spectacle designed to unite spectators and television audiences worldwide in admiration of the unique spirit of the Paralympic Games.

Unlike traditional ceremonies held in stadiums, this Opening Ceremony will break the mold by taking place outdoors, with athletes parading down the famous Champs-Elysées. The event will culminate in a grand celebration and the official opening of the Paralympic Games in the iconic Place de la Concorde, in front of thousands of spectators. This innovative approach aims to bring the Games closer to the public, allowing more people to experience the excitement and joy of this historic event.

Jitske Visser, a Paralympic wheelchair basketball medallist, IPC Athletes’ Commission President, and competitor at Paris 2024, expressed her excitement about the unique format of the ceremony. She described it as an “incredible moment” for the athletes, who will have the opportunity to be part of a historic celebration on the world’s most famous avenue, surrounded by the charm and beauty of Paris.

Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, also highlighted the significance of hosting the Paralympic Games in the heart of the city. He stated that this choice of location is a powerful symbol of France’s ambition to use the Games as a platform to promote inclusion for people with disabilities. By bringing the ceremony into the city’s center, Paris 2024 aims to emphasize the importance of accessibility and inclusion, showcasing the nation’s commitment to integrating these values into society.

As the world watches, the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony will not only celebrate athletic achievement but also serve as a testament to the spirit of inclusion and unity that the Games embody. With its unique format and spectacular setting, the ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion that will leave a lasting impact on athletes, spectators, and viewers around the globe.