What Highlights Did Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli Bring to the Opening Ceremony?

The 2026 Winter Olympics, set to take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, promises an exciting opening ceremony featuring renowned artists Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli. Their participation is expected to enhance the global appeal of this prestigious event, attracting viewers from around the world, including the UK.

Last updated: 08 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The anticipation for the 2026 Winter Olympics is building as it approaches, with the opening ceremony scheduled for 6 February 2026. Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli's performances have been confirmed, highlighting the event's commitment to showcasing exceptional talent. Their involvement not only brings star power but also aligns with the Olympic spirit of excellence and celebration.

Key takeaways

• The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.
• Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli are confirmed to perform at the opening ceremony.
• The event is set to begin on 6 February 2026.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to the 2026 Winter Olympics has involved numerous planning stages and preparations:

• 24 June 2019: Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo were awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• February 2020: Initial planning for the opening ceremony began, focusing on cultural representation.
• October 2023: Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli confirmed their participation in the opening ceremony.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest development is the confirmation of Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli as performers for the opening ceremony. This announcement is expected to boost interest in the event, especially among fans of these iconic artists.

What was already established

It has been known since 2019 that Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo would host the Winter Olympics, with various sporting events planned across both locations. The opening ceremony is anticipated to celebrate Italian culture and the Olympic spirit.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Winter Olympics will likely have various implications for UK viewers, including increased interest in winter sports and potential travel opportunities to Italy. Broadcasters will provide extensive coverage, allowing viewers to enjoy the event from home.

Businesses and jobs

The event is expected to benefit businesses involved in tourism and sports apparel in the run-up to the Olympics. Additionally, UK-based businesses may see increased demand for winter sports equipment as interest grows.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may also engage with the event through diplomatic channels, with potential discussions on sports, culture, and tourism policies related to the Olympics.

Numbers that matter

• 2: Number of host cities for the 2026 Winter Olympics: Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo.
• 6 February 2026: The date of the opening ceremony.
• 15: Number of sports disciplines expected to be contested during the games.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Winter Olympics: A major international sporting event held every four years, featuring winter sports.
• Opening Ceremony: A formal event marking the beginning of the Olympic Games, typically featuring performances and the parade of nations.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the opening ceremony approaches, expect further announcements regarding participating athletes and additional performances.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the months leading up to the Winter Olympics, marketing campaigns will ramp up, with a focus on promoting tourism to Italy and generating excitement around the events.

Signals to watch

• Official announcements regarding additional performers and athletes.
• Updates on travel arrangements for UK spectators.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about the event schedule to catch all key performances.
• Consider travel options if planning to attend in person.

Don’t

• Don’t miss out on early ticket sales for events if interested in attending.
• Don’t overlook the potential impact on winter sports participation in the UK.

Checklist

• Follow updates from the Olympic Committee regarding event schedules.
• Check local listings for broadcast times in the UK.
• Research travel options if considering attending the games.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli's performances are confirmed, other aspects of the ceremony remain subject to change. Factors such as travel restrictions, public health guidelines, and potential political issues may affect attendance and participation.

Bottom line

The 2026 Winter Olympics is set to be an exciting event, with star performances adding to the festivities. UK audiences can look forward to a celebration of winter sports and cultural exchange, with plenty of opportunities to engage with the events from home.

FAQs

What is the date of the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony?

The opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place on 6 February 2026.

Who are the confirmed performers for the opening ceremony?

Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli are confirmed to perform at the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Where will the 2026 Winter Olympics be held?

The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.