2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony: Date, Time, TV Channel and Full Details
Around 2,900 of the world’s best winter athletes will gather in Italy for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, one of the most anticipated global sporting events of the decade. For the first time in Olympic history, the Winter Games will be hosted by two cities — Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — showcasing Italy’s rich culture, history and passion for sport.
The opening ceremony marks the official start of the Games, featuring the iconic parade of nations, live performances, and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron. Below is everything you need to know about the 2026 Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
When Is the 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony?
The opening ceremony for the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place on:
Friday, 6 February 2026
This spectacular event officially launches two weeks of world-class competition across snow and ice disciplines.
What Time Does the Opening Ceremony Start?
The ceremony is scheduled to begin at:
2:30 pm ET
A prime-time encore will air at 8:00 pm ET
Viewers around the world will be able to watch either live or during the evening replay.
How Can Fans Watch the Opening Ceremony?
Fans can follow the opening ceremony through multiple broadcast and streaming platforms.
Where to Watch:
NBC (television broadcast)
Peacock app
NBC app
NBC Sports app
NBCOlympics.com
NBC.com
These platforms will offer live coverage, replays, and behind-the-scenes content.
Where Is the Opening Ceremony Being Held?
The opening ceremony will be staged at:
San Siro Stadium, Milan
This iconic venue, known worldwide for football, will be transformed into a grand Olympic stage for the celebration.
Who Is Hosting the Opening Ceremony Coverage?
NBC has assembled a star-studded hosting team for the event.
Hosts Include:
Terry Gannon – Lead host
Shaun White – Three-time Olympic snowboarding champion
Mike Tirico – Contributing remotely from Northern California while preparing to call Super Bowl LX on 8 February
Who Are Team USA’s Flag Bearers?
Team USA has announced two accomplished athletes to lead the delegation during the parade of nations.
Team USA Flag Bearers:
Erin Jackson – Long track speedskating
Frank Del Duca – Bobsledding
Both athletes represent excellence and leadership on the Olympic stage.
Who Is Performing at the Opening Ceremony?
The opening ceremony will feature a mix of international music stars and Italian cultural icons.
Confirmed Performers:
Mariah Carey (headlining act)
Lang Lang
Cecilia Bartoli
Andrea Bocelli
Laura Pausini
Pierfrancesco Favino
Sabrina Impacciatore
Matilda De Angelis
The performances are expected to celebrate both global music and Italian artistry.
What Is the Theme of the 2026 Opening Ceremony?
The official theme of the ceremony is:
“Armonia” (Harmony)
This theme reflects:
Italian values and traditions
The country’s history and culture
Unity through sport
The Olympic spirit of peace and togetherness
How Does the Olympic Torch Relay Work?
The Olympic torch relay is one of the most symbolic traditions of the Games.
Key Facts About the Torch Relay:
First used at the 1936 Berlin Summer Olympics
Inspired by ancient Greek traditions
Symbolises peace, friendship and unity
2026 Torch Relay Journey:
Lit in Olympia, Greece on 26 November 2025
Arrived in Rome on 4 December 2025
Travels through every region of Italy
Concludes at San Siro Stadium, Milan, for the lighting of the Olympic cauldron
Why the 2026 Winter Olympics Are Special
The Milan–Cortina Games promise to be unique because of:
Dual-city hosting for the first time in Winter Olympics history
A blend of modern city venues and alpine landscapes
A strong focus on culture, sustainability and innovation
References
NBC Olympics
International Olympic Committee (IOC)
Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee
NBC Sports coverage details
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