Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony on the Seine
- 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony took place on the Seine river
- Spectators enjoyed the spectacle despite the rain, but locals had limited access
- Mixed feelings of excitement and frustration surrounded the event
The 2024 Paris Olympics kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony on Friday, featuring performances by international stars including Lady Gaga and Celine Dion. For the first time, the ceremony took place along the Seine River, where Gaga expressed her gratitude on Instagram, emphasizing her desire to honor French culture through her performance. She highlighted her special connection to France and aimed to create a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s rich artistic history. Celine Dion concluded the event with a moving rendition of Edith Piaf’s “Hymne à l’amour” at the iconic Eiffel Tower, following the lighting of the Olympic cauldron. The ceremony showcased a vibrant parade of athletes, with over 8,000 competitors from around the world traveling on boats along the Seine, culminating in a breathtaking view at the Trocadéro. Other notable performances included French Malian singer Aya Nakamura and a lively can-can by 80 performers from the Moulin Rouge. Despite the grandeur of the event, many locals and visitors expressed frustration over access restrictions and logistical challenges. The city was heavily policed, and barriers made navigation difficult for those hoping to witness the festivities. Some attendees lamented the limited visibility and access to viewing areas, while others found solace in local bars, cheering for their teams as they passed by. As the ceremony unfolded, a sense of camaraderie emerged among the crowd, with the French national anthem sung passionately by attendees. While some compared the event to previous Olympics, the atmosphere remained celebratory, marking a memorable start to the Paris 2024 Games.