Final preparations are underway in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo ahead of the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics, set for Feb. 6 at Milan’s iconic San Siro Stadium. Organisers and performers have been conducting full rehearsals with hundreds of volunteers and professional artists taking part in choreography, staging and lighting tests to fine-tune the show. The extensive dress rehearsals inside a temporary structure near the stadium reflect weeks of coordination involving more than 1,300 participants from around the world.
The ceremony is expected to blend Italian culture, history, and modern artistic expression, with creative teams and designers putting the final touches on choreography, costumes and scenic elements that will be broadcast to a global audience. Events marking the Games’ start will include the traditional parade of nations and the lighting of the Olympic flame in a show themed around “harmony,” symbolising unity and international cooperation.
Despite some tight construction schedules and logistical challenges, organisers and International Olympic Committee officials say the ceremony promises to be a memorable showcase of Italian heritage and innovation, kicking off the Winter Games that run through Feb. 22.
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