The opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics at Milan's San Siro stadium set a new record with over 61,000 tickets sold, according to local organizers. An additional 10,000 spectators watched from other locations, as the Games span a wide area in northern Italy. The ceremony was notable for its complexity, with athletes parading in four different locations and two Olympic cauldrons being lit simultaneously for the first time. Organizers expressed pride in the event's smooth execution, despite the show's length being noted as its only significant issue. The ceremony featured performances by international artists, including Mariah Carey, who participated without compensation, and highlighted both Italian and universal themes.