After a quartet of previous opening ceremonies with their own set of challenges, the 2026 Winter Olympics' opening ceremony in Milan offered a refreshing change of pace.
Breaking a Silence
The ceremony was a respite from the world's current state of military conflicts, political polarization, and social division.
A clear, dry night, with temperatures around 40 degrees, provided an ideal setting for the event, which paid homage to Italy's musical traditions.
Married to this Italian flair were giant tubes dispensing primary colors of blue, red, and yellow, in honor of the country's art history.
Finding Common Ground
Despite the presence of ICE agents traveling with the U.S. Olympic delegation, American spectators were largely welcomed by fellow fans from around the world.
Most people accepted that not all Americans hold the same views, or even agree with the policies that have been making headlines.
The U.S. athletes were cheered on their way into San Siro, though Vice President J.D. Vance was jeered a bit when he appeared on the jumbotron.
Embracing Unity
The Olympics offered an array of welcome distractions, including Lindsey Vonn's comeback attempt at 41 and with a ruptured ACL.
Other events include hockey rivalries and Ilia Malinin's jumps on the ice.
The Bottom Line
- Bullet 1: Amidst global challenges, the 2026 Winter Olympics' opening ceremony in Milan stood as a beacon of unity and acceptance.
- Bullet 2: The event successfully brought together people from around the world, offering a welcome respite from current tensions.
- Bullet 3: With a focus on Italian culture and art history, the ceremony provided an ideal backdrop for the Games to come.
