Milan Cortina Olympics Open with a Display of Harmony

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 7, 2026 4:10 AM ET

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo commenced with an unprecedented opening ceremony that took place across multiple locations in northern Italy. This event marked a historic moment for the Olympics, showcasing unity and harmony among the host cities.

Milan Cortina Olympics Open with a Display of Harmony

On the day of the ceremony, significant preparations were evident. Over 700 hours of rehearsal culminated in a vibrant celebration featuring 1,200 performers ranging in age from 10 to 70. The event aimed to foster a sense of community and shared values through a narrative called “Armonia.”

Key Locations

Milan: San Siro Stadium
Cortina d’Ampezzo: Town center
Livigno: Snowboard and freestyle skiing venue
Predazzo: Ski jumping stadium

During the ceremony, the atmosphere at San Siro was electric. A stunning artistic performance highlighted Italy’s cultural heritage. Acclaimed tenor Andrea Bocelli participated in the torch relay, which concluded with an illumination of cauldrons in Milan and Cortina.

Athlete Participation

Following a new format, athletes paraded from their nearest venues, showcasing unity in the Olympic spirit. The ceremony featured a warm reception for various national teams. Notable moments included enthusiastic cheers for the Ukrainian and United States teams, despite some mixed reactions towards political figures in attendance.

Messages of Unity and Harmony

Italian President Sergio Mattarella delivered a powerful address emphasizing values, friendship, and respect. He highlighted that these Games are the “most gender balanced ever.” His speech resonated throughout, reaffirming the idea that sports serve as a universal language.

Artistic Highlights

The artistic segment was impressive, starting with a tribute to Italy’s aesthetic beauty and the renowned 18th-century sculptor Antonio Canova. A performance by ballet dancers and a spectacular display of colors captivated the audience. Iconic Italian composers were also honored during the event.

A Historic Dual Lighting of the Cauldron

The lighting of the Olympic cauldons was a poignant moment, featuring famous Alpine skiers Alberto Tomba, Deborah Compagnoni, and Sofia Goggia. These cauldrons’ designs drew inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci, making them a unique artistic feature of the Games.

Local Celebrations and Community Spirit

In Cortina, community participation was evident during the festivities. A small-town parade led into the opening ceremony, which aimed to include the audience in the Olympic spirit. However, the smaller scale of local events contrasted with the grandeur in Milan.

Performance and Participation

Livigno’s opening drew crowds that celebrated at the base of the Snow Park. Individual athletes represented their nations, creating a personal and emotional connection with their communities and fans.

Predazzo: A Local Perspective

Predazzo, a quaint mountain town, served as a backdrop for the local ceremony, where residents and visitors gathered to share in the Olympic excitement. Community members celebrated the event, showcasing local pride as they supported athletes from around the world.

This unique format of the Milan Cortina Olympics emphasized connection through shared experiences and cultural appreciation, setting a new standard for future Olympic ceremonies.