Key Points
- For the first time ever, the 2024 Paralympic Games opening ceremony in Paris will be held outside a stadium.
- The event will feature a big parade along the Champs-Elysées and a grand ceremony at Place de la Concorde.
- Thomas Jolly, who directed the Olympic opening ceremony, is also in charge of this event’s artistic direction.
- Actor Jackie Chan will be carrying the Paralympic flame during the ceremony.
- Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman will create performances with dancers who have disabilities.
- There will be special accommodations and accessibility options for spectators with disabilities.
- Security will be tight, with 15,000 police officers and various checks for safety.
Looma News
The 2024 Paralympic Games are kicking off in Paris with a bang, breaking tradition by hosting the opening ceremony outdoors for the first time ever. Picture Paris as one huge stage, stretching from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, turning the city into a lively celebration of athleticism and inclusion. For almost three hours, the city will burst with color and excitement, showcasing around 4,400 para athletes from 184 delegations and 22 sports.
The parade along the famous Champs-Elysées is open to everyone and is called a “parade populaire,” so everyone can join in the fun. After the parade, the official ceremony will happen on a huge 4,500 square meter stage at Place de la Concorde. Tickets range from 150 to 700 euros, and the Olympic cauldron will light up the Paris sky, bringing back the Olympic spirit.
Adding some star power, actor Jackie Chan will carry the Paralympic flame, while Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman will bring his unique style to the stage. Ekman, known for his cool work in opera and theater, will feature dancers with disabilities in his show, highlighting their amazing talents. This fits perfectly with the event’s goal of promoting inclusivity and changing views about disability.
Paris 2024 wants to make the Games accessible for everyone, with special seating for spectators with disabilities. Security will be strong, with 15,000 police officers keeping things safe and orderly, plus various controls for vehicles and pedestrians. The Games will run for ten days, wrapping up with a closing ceremony at the Stade de France on September 8th. This historic opening ceremony is set to be a big deal for the Paralympics and a step forward in promoting accessibility and inclusion.
