If you’re curious about what’s coming up in Paris this summer, you’ve landed in the right spot. The Games kick off on July 26, 2024 and run through August 11. That’s a little over two weeks of non‑stop sport, ceremony and excitement. Below we break down the dates you care about, where the action happens, and how to make sure you don’t miss a single moment.
The opening ceremony lights up the Stade de France on July 26 at 9 pm local time. Expect fireworks, music and a parade of athletes from more than 200 nations. Competition starts the next day with swimming, athletics, gymnastics and a host of other events.
Big‑ticket sports like football, basketball and volleyball are spread throughout the two weeks so you can catch multiple finals. Track and field runs from August 2 to August 8, ending with the iconic 100‑meter dash on the final night. If you love new or niche sports, keep an eye on skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing—they’re all scheduled in the middle of the Games.
Don’t forget the closing ceremony on August 11. It’s a shorter show but still packs a punch with performances that celebrate French culture and hand over the torch to Los Angeles for 2028.
Getting tickets is easier if you plan early. The official ticketing site opens a three‑phase sale: a preview for French residents in March, an international wave in April and a last‑minute “lottery” in May. Pick the events you want, choose a seat class (from basic arena seats to premium boxes), and pay online with a credit card or PayPal.
Travelers should book accommodation at least two months ahead—Paris fills up fast during the Games. Look for hotels near public transport hubs like the Métro lines 1, 4 or 6; they’ll get you to most venues quickly. If you’re on a budget, consider staying in neighboring suburbs such as Saint‑Denis or Montreuil and taking the RER.
Can’t make it to France? No problem. Most events will be streamed live on French broadcaster France TV and its international partners. In the U.S., NBCUniversal holds the rights, so you can watch via Peacock Premium or the NBC app. For European viewers, BBC iPlayer and Eurosport cover key competitions. A quick VPN set‑up lets you access any of these streams if they’re blocked in your region.
Finally, keep an eye on social media for real‑time updates. The official #Paris2024 hashtag trends during the Games, and many athletes share behind‑the‑scenes clips that make you feel like you’re right there in the stadium.
Whether you’re booking a seat, planning a trip or just streaming from your couch, this guide gives you the basics to enjoy Paris 2024 Olympics without stress. Grab those tickets, set your alarms and get ready for some unforgettable moments.
