The Winter Olympics officially kick off today, Friday 6 February 2026, with a spectacular Opening Ceremony that marks the start of the global sporting event. The primary ceremony is set to take place at Milan's iconic San Siro Stadium, which is hosting one of its final major events before its scheduled demolition, adding a poignant historical note to the celebrations.
Ceremony Details and Theme
The ceremony's theme is 'Harmony', a tribute to the host cities of Milan and Cortina. Cortina, which previously hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956, will also feature in the festivities with athlete parades in its mountain clusters, blending urban and alpine settings for a unique experience.
How to Watch Live
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the Opening Ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC Two, with coverage starting at 6:30pm GMT. The event itself is scheduled to begin at 7pm GMT, ensuring prime-time viewing for audiences across the country.
In the United States, coverage will be available on multiple networks, including NBC, USA Network, CNBC, and NBCSN. Viewers can tune in from 2 pm Eastern Time and 11 am Pacific Time to catch all the action as it unfolds.
Star-Studded Performances
The ceremony will feature an impressive lineup of performers, headlined by global music icons. Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli are set to deliver memorable acts, alongside pianist Lang Lang. In a notable crossover, Snoop Dogg will also perform and serve as Team USA's honorary coach, adding a touch of celebrity flair to the athletic proceedings.
This blend of sports and entertainment promises to make the Opening Ceremony a must-watch event, setting the stage for two weeks of intense competition and international camaraderie at the Winter Games.
