As the curtain falls on the 2024 Paris Olympics, a grand spectacle awaits to mark the end of two weeks of intense competition, remarkable achievements, and unforgettable moments. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect from the closing ceremony, set to bring the world together one last time before the flame is passed to Los Angeles.
When and Where
The closing ceremony will take place on Sunday, 11 August, at the Stade de France, located just north of Paris. The event will kick off at 8:00 PM BST (12:30 AM IST, Monday) and will run until 10:30 PM BST.
With a seating capacity of over 80,000, the Stade de France will host the final celebration, following the audacious opening ceremony that took place along the Seine River.
Traditional Highlights
As is customary, the closing ceremony will feature the athletes’ parade, where competitors from all nations march together in a symbol of global unity and sportsmanship. The event will also include the formal handover of the Olympic flag to the organisers of the 2028 Los Angeles Games, symbolising the transition to the next Olympic host city.
In addition, there will be a final medal presentation ceremony, honouring the winners of the women’s marathon held earlier in the day. This moment will encapsulate the spirit of competition and achievement that defines the Olympics.
Spectacular Show Awaits: Paris Olympics 2024
The organisers have promised an extraordinary show with over a hundred performers, including acrobats, dancers, and circus artists. The ceremony is expected to be a visually stunning affair, with giant sets, elaborate costumes, and spectacular lighting effects designed to take spectators on a journey through time, blending both past and future elements.
Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the ceremony, has described the event as “very visual, very choreographic, very acrobatic” with an operatic dimension, ensuring a grand farewell to the athletes and the global audience.
Touch of Science Fiction at Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony
In a unique twist, the closing ceremony will incorporate a “science-fiction” and “dystopia” theme, with the show titled “Records.” This concept promises to add a futuristic and thought-provoking element to the celebration, setting it apart from previous ceremonies.
Who’s performing at Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony?
While the organisers have kept the official lineup under wraps, rumours have been swirling about the star-studded performances expected at the event. According to Variety, global sensations like Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers might take the stage. There’s even speculation about Beyoncé making an appearance, although this has not been confirmed.
Adding to the excitement, Tom Cruise is reportedly planning to perform an epic stunt, involving rappelling down from the top of the Stade de France and landing on the stadium field to carry the Olympic flag. This thrilling act is sure to be one of the ceremony’s highlights.
How to Watch Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony
For those eager to witness the grand finale, the closing ceremony will be broadcast live on Network18 and can be streamed on JioCinema. The event is expected to last slightly over two hours, offering viewers a mix of tradition, spectacle, and innovation as the world bids adieu to the Paris Olympics.
Handover to Los Angeles 2028
A key moment of the ceremony will be the handover of the Olympic flag from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. This symbolic gesture will mark the official transfer of Olympic duties to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Games.
As the Paris Olympics draw to a close, the world can look forward to a closing ceremony that not only celebrates the achievements of the past fortnight but also sets the stage for the future of the Olympic Games.
