The opening ceremony at the 2026 Winter Olympics promises to make history before the first medal is even awarded. Here's how and when to watch it.

The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics officially begins today with the opening ceremony and a number of early events. Curling began the action over the past two days and continues this Friday, as does the women’s ice hockey competition that saw Team USA beat Czech Republic yesterday.

Are you ready for the 2026 Olympics? Here's everything you need to know about watching the Opening Ceremony for the Winter Games.

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony on Peacock or NBCOlympics.com. Alternatively, you can watch on a number of free streaming platforms including 9Now, CBC Gem, and BBC iPlayer.

Friday's ceremony marks the start of the 25th Winter Games

MILAN (AP) — An unprecedented four-site, dual-cauldron Winter Olympics opening ceremony replete with references to Italian icons and culture — plus American pop diva Mariah Carey — was scheduled to officially start the Milan Cortina Games on Friday as the sports spectacle returns to a nation that last hosted the event 20 years ago.

The Friday ceremony promises multiple Parade of Nations processions, a performance by Mariah Carey, and Team USA outfits designed by Ralph Lauren.

The 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony will be held at Milan's San Siro Stadium, home to football clubs AC Milan and Inter Milan. The Opening Ceremony will actually be one of the final events held at San Siro Stadium, it's set to be demolished some time after the Games end.

Team USA takes Italy: Here's when and where to watch the 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony.