NPR Highlights Closing Ceremony of Winter Olympics
On Sunday, the Winter Olympics concluded in a stunning ceremony at the historic Verona Arena in Italy. The event marked the end of 16 days filled with thrilling competition and emotional highs and lows. While the closing ceremony was sentimental, it featured vibrant displays of lights, confetti, and engaging electropop music.
Highlights of the Closing Ceremony
The ceremony echoed the grandeur of the opening event, showcasing a parade of nations along with a symbolic flag handover. The Olympic cauldrons in Milan and Cortina were lit and extinguished, similar to the opening ceremony.
A Venue Steeped in History
The Verona Arena, an ancient amphitheater built around 30 AD, has a seating capacity of approximately 15,000, significantly smaller than Milan’s San Siro stadium, which can hold 75,000. It provided an intimate setting for attendees and was equipped with small tote bags containing comfortable seat cushions to enhance the experience.
Relaxed Atmosphere
During the Parade of Nations, only flag-bearers participated, and unlike the opening ceremony, no announcer was present. Athletes dressed for comfort; Team USA, dressed by Ralph Lauren, opted for casual streetwear instead of their previous formal attire.
Speeches and Acknowledgments
Significant speeches were delivered by Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee, and the head of the Italian organizing committee. They expressed gratitude to the 80,000 volunteers who helped run the Games. The torch was officially passed to France, the host of the next Winter Olympics in 2030, which will be held in the Alps.
Looking Forward to the Paralympics
The ceremony also acknowledged the upcoming Paralympics, scheduled to commence on March 6 at the same Verona venue. Athletes received appreciative applause from the audience, though they faced swift admonishments from journalists nearby.
Entertainment and Excitement
The event featured striking artistic elements, including performers dressed as candelabras. A DJ set by Major Lazer concluded the evening, energizing the crowd with a medley of hits. This vibrant finale, with beams of light and confetti, drew widespread participation from the audience.
After the Celebration
As the night wrapped up, the athletes mingled with each other and ventured out into the surrounding streets. Many boarded buses returning to Milan, while others chose to grab a quick meal. The celebratory atmosphere persisted, with conversations among uniform-clad Olympians echoing the warmth of camaraderie established during the Games.
