When is the Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony? UK start time for 2020 event as fans banned from attending

ByDan Gibbs

Updated 23/07/2021 at 10:46 GMT

The greatest show on Earth is about to begin and Tokyo 2020 is set to put on a show for the millions of viewers around the world. Expect to delve into Japan's rich history and of course see the Olympic torch in all its glory during the opening ceremony - but under current coronavirus restrictions it's still unclear how many athletes and fans will be in attendance.

The greatest show on Earth has always been the slogan attached to the Olympic Games and the opening ceremonies are usually nothing short of spectacular.

Cast your mind back to 2012 in London when Danny Boyle directed the opening ceremony with the likes of Paul McCartney, Dizzee Rascal, James Bond, the Queen and even Mr Bean made an appearance.

Tokyo 2020 might not have the same atmosphere witnessed at previous opening ceremonies due to fans being banned from attending, but everyone is still expecting loud music, flashing lights and fireworks galore.

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Not only does the opening ceremony officially open the start of the Games, it also allows the host country to show off its culture on the biggest of international stages.

Here’s all you need to know about the Tokyo 2020 Olympic opening ceremony.

• When do the Olympics start and how long does it last?
• Who are Team GB's flag bearers at the opening ceremony?

When is the Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony?

The opening ceremony will take place on Friday, July 23, starting at 20:00 local time.

Japan is eight hours ahead of British Summer Time, meaning proceedings will begin at 12:00 in the UK.

The opening ceremony will take place at the National Stadium in Tokyo which, if a state of emergency hadn't been declared in the city given the coronavirus pandemic, would have maxed out its 48,000 capacity.

It's unclear how many athletes will be allowed to attend the opening ceremony

Image credit: Getty Images

Olympic organisers are yet to confirm how many people will be in attendance with some members of the International Olympic Committee, diplomats, foreign dignitaries and Olympic sponsors still expected to attend.

It also raises the question as to how many athletes will attend.

Usually, athletes competing will do a lap of the stadium with their country and its flag bearers before enjoying the party but it’s yet to be confirmed if this tradition will go ahead given the strict coronavirus measures in place.

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Stream every unmissable moment of Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 live on discovery+, The Streaming Home of the Olympics.

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