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MilanoCortina Opens the 2026 Winter Games With Dual-City Ceremony and Mariah Carey Performance

Framed by a Harmony theme and rich cultural tributes, the show drew praise for polish even as early reviews called it restrained.

Overview

  • Most festivities unfolded at Milan’s San Siro with synchronized moments in Cortina and other mountain hubs, and twin cauldrons were lit at Milan’s Arco della Pace and Cortina’s main square.
  • Mariah Carey delivered an Italian rendition of “Volare” in a medley with “Nothing Is Impossible,” with Laura Pausini performing the Italian anthem and Andrea Bocelli among the headline acts.
  • The athlete parade spanned multiple locations with broadcast edits linking each site, though one on-the-ground account described the stadium atmosphere as muted.
  • Fashion took a star turn, highlighted by Donatella Versace’s black platform pumps and other statement footwear from celebrity guests.
  • U.S. viewers can watch coverage on NBC with streaming on Peacock, including a primetime cut of the ceremony at 8 p.m. ET.