Olympic opening ceremonies begin today, Friday July 26 with athletes on boats cruising down the River Seine to the Eiffel Tower. Approximately 300,000 people will be there, most of whom are invited guests. The original plan was to have a 100% free ceremony, with millions watching the parade from the riverbanks. Those ambitions were dialed down by the French government, due to security concerns.
In addition to the parade of athletes, 3,000 dancers and artists will be featured. Celine Dion and Lady Gaga have arrived in Paris amid speculation that one or both of the pop singers will perform. Even with a good chance of showers, the event will go on as planned.
Between the lines: An Olympic opening ceremony has never been held outside of a stadium. Incroyable! Merveilleux! Bien fait!