The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

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The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026