The Opening Ceremony of the Winter Olympics officially begins the Games and features the Parade of Nations, cultural performances, and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron. If you’re searching for when the Winter Olympics opening ceremony is and how to watch it, here is a complete, up-to-date guide.
When Is the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony?
The Opening Ceremony for the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place on:
Friday, February 6, 2026
This ceremony launches the 2026 Winter Olympics, commonly referred to as Milano Cortina 2026.
Where Is the Opening Ceremony Held?
The opening ceremony will be held in Milan, Italy, at San Siro Stadium, one of Europe’s most recognizable stadiums.
Although many Winter Olympic events will take place across northern Italy and the Alps, Milan will serve as the ceremonial heart of the Games.
What Time Is the Opening Ceremony?
The official start time has not yet been announced. Historically, Winter Olympics opening ceremonies are held in the evening local time, which typically translates to:
- Afternoon or early evening in the United States
- Late evening in parts of Europe
Exact broadcast times will be confirmed closer to the Games.
How to Watch the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony
Viewers in the United States will be able to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony live through NBC’s official broadcast platforms.
Where to Watch
- NBC – Live television coverage
- Peacock – Live streaming and full replay access
- NBC Olympics website and app – Additional streaming options, highlights, and coverage
Peacock is expected to be the primary streaming destination for cord-cutters, offering live coverage, replays, and on-demand Olympic content throughout the Games.
International viewers should check their local Olympic broadcast partners, as coverage varies by country.
What Happens During the Opening Ceremony?
The Winter Olympics opening ceremony traditionally includes:
- The Parade of Nations, with athletes entering by country
- Artistic performances celebrating the host nation’s culture
- The lighting of the Olympic cauldron
- The official declaration opening the Olympic Games
It is one of the most-watched events of the entire Winter Olympics.
When Do the 2026 Winter Olympics End?
The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will run from:
February 6 to February 22, 2026
The Closing Ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, February 22, 2026.
Final Answer: When Is the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony?
The 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, in Milan, Italy, and will be available to watch live on NBC and Peacock in the United States.