Paris Olympics Kick Off with River Seine Ceremony

The Paris 2024 Olympics opened with a groundbreaking ceremony that took place on the River Seine, marking the first time in Olympic history that the Parade of Nations occurred outside a stadium. Over 1,000 athletes paraded on 85 boats along a six-kilometer route, showcasing iconic Parisian landmarks such as Notre Dame while enduring rain that dampened spirits but failed to deter the crowd of 300,000 spectators. French President Emmanuel Macron officially declared the Games open, and the ceremony featured performances by Lady Gaga and a tribute to the contributions of women in French history. Despite initial excitement, the inclement weather brought challenges, including travel disruptions due to arson attacks on high-speed rail lines. The event blended vibrant cultural displays with modern elements, although some attendees expressed confusion over the unconventional format. Overall, the ceremony aimed to embody the spirit of resilience and celebration in the face of adversity.