The Opening Ceremony for the 2024 Paris Paralympics dazzled and inspired on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
About 168 international delegations paraded through the iconic Champs-Elysées to the Place de la Concorde, the first time in Paralympic history the Opening Ceremony took place outside of a stadium.
Take a look below at the monumental celebration that marked the start of the Games.
Team USA flag bearers report for duty
Ahead of the Paralympic Opening Ceremony, sitting volleyball player Nicky Nieves and wheelchair basketball player Steve Serio were named the U.S. flag bearers.
Paris prepares for Paralympic party
In the days before the Opening Ceremony, France's iconic monuments and stadiums were transformed for the Paralympics. Photos show the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower Stadium standing ready for the sportsmanship and celebration to come.
The Olympic Phryge passed the baton to the Paralympic Phryge — the mascot is sure to bring it's je ne sais quoi to every event.
Team USA suits up
The United States' para track & field, para cycling, goalball, and wheelchair basketball athletes were all smiles in their Ralph Lauren jackets. Team USA flag bearer Steve Serio said they don't look too shabby.
Jackie Chan has the torch!
Martial arts actor and Hollywood legend Jackie Chan was spotted making an "en garde" pose with the Paralympic flame in Paris. The 70-year-old was tapped to be a torchbearer ahead of the Opening Ceremony.
It's a Phyrge...it's a Phrygian Taxi
Hop on! Paralympic French swimmer Théo Curin knows how to drive around the streets of Paris.
Bienvenue à Paris
The Paralympic Opening Ceremony centers around the theme of paradox. The performances began with dancers in black suits and colorfully dressed performers with disabilities moving along to Chilly Gonzales's piano music, followed by Christine and the Queens performing an Édith Piaf song.
Sunset promenade in Paris
The sunset made for a magical Parade of Athletes down the Champs-Elysées. Plus, a special salute from the planes of the Patrouille de France.
Sir, how long is your cape?
A DJ in a long French flag cape kept the energy up as Phryge mascots danced and athletes made their way into the Place de le Concorde.
America arrives!
Team USA's Paralympians made their way to the center of the arena — nearly the last delegation but never the least!
Paralympic joy
Time to celebrate! Team USA showed off their Opening Ceremony vibes by dancing and wishing wheelchair basketball player AJ Fitzpatrick happy birthday.
Let the Games begin!
With the cauldron lit, the 2024 Paris Paralympics have officially taken flight. The torch lighting included an orchestra, dancers, and athletes like Team USA's Oksana Masters passing the torch.