Paris Set to Make History
Grand Opening Ceremony of Paris 2024 Set to Make History as the City Hosts Its First-Ever Paralympic Games
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, August 28, as Paris ushers in a groundbreaking chapter in its sporting history. For the very first time, the City of Light will host the Paralympic Games, and the festivities are kicking off with an extraordinary Opening Ceremony.
Starting at 8:00 PM local time, the historic Place de la Concorde and the iconic Champs-Elysées will transform into a stage for a grand celebration. A dazzling lineup of 4,400 Paralympic athletes from 184 delegations will parade down this world-renowned avenue, marking the start of 11 days of exhilarating competition beginning August 29.
Under the creative direction of Thomas Jolly, known for his innovative approach to the Olympics and Paralympics, this ceremony promises to be a spectacular tribute to the athletes and the values they stand for. Jolly describes the event as “a magnificent source of inspiration,” vowing to deliver performances that will captivate and unite audiences around the globe.
In a departure from traditional stadium settings, the ceremony will unfold outdoors, bringing a fresh and dynamic energy to the event. Athletes will march proudly through the heart of Paris, culminating in a grand celebration at Place de la Concorde. Thousands of spectators are expected to gather, witnessing a historic moment that redefines how we celebrate the Paralympic spirit. Jitske Visser, a Paralympic wheelchair basketball medallist and President of the IPC Athletes’ Commission, shares the excitement: “What an incredible moment for our athletes! Being part of this historic Opening Ceremony on the world’s most famous avenue, surrounded by the charm of Paris, is truly special.”
Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the ceremony’s significance: “This event at the heart of our city symbolizes our commitment to placing inclusion for people with disabilities at the forefront of our society.”
As Paris prepares to shine a spotlight on the Paralympic Games, the world watches eagerly. Here’s to celebrating an inspiring chapter in sports history and embracing the incredible achievements of athletes who push boundaries every day.
As Paris prepares to shine a spotlight on the Paralympic Games, the world watches eagerly. Here’s to celebrating an inspiring chapter in sports history and embracing the incredible achievements of athletes who push boundaries every day. The Opening Ceremony is not just a kickoff to the Games but a celebration of the human spirit and the extraordinary capabilities of those who overcome obstacles with grace and strength.
As Paris prepares to host its first-ever Paralympic Games, the city is not only gearing up for a spectacular Opening Ceremony but also eagerly anticipating the remarkable performances that lie ahead. With 4,400 athletes from 184 delegations set to compete, Paris is buzzing with excitement for the incredible feats of strength, skill, and determination that will unfold over the next 11 days. The Games are expected to showcase exceptional talent and inspiring stories, and the city is ready to celebrate these extraordinary achievements with enthusiasm and pride.
