Popular Searches:

Keep up to date

Sign up today for exclusive offers and incredible experiences you won’t want to miss at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Sign up now

8 years on from the 2012 Opening Ceremony

8 years on from the 2012 Opening Ceremony

Story 27/07/2020

Eight years ago today, thousands were gathered in the Park to join the millions around the world watching the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony. From seeing the Queen jump out of a helicopter to a group dance set-piece honouring the NHS, the ceremony made for a truly unforgettable night!

As well as opening the 2012 Summer Olympics in style, the ceremony marked an important moment for east London. Hosting the 2012 Games created a legacy, with the area transformed for the Games – nestling world-class sporting venues in amongst beautiful parklands and landscaped gardens. Now, eight years on, the legacy continues as these iconic sporting venues now also sit alongside whole new neighbourhoods, prestigious organisations and cultural destinations as well as the acres of award-winning green space.

Tokyo 2020 might’ve been postponed until next year, but for anyone wanting to relive the excitement of London 2012 there are plenty of ways to do so on the Park. Some of the Park’s iconic venues, including the London Aquatics Centre and the Copper Box Arena, have now reopened for visitors – meaning you can now book in a dip at the Pool of Champions! If you want to enjoy the fresh air, download our free 2012 Trail and explore the Park through a series of landmarks and fun challenges. As a memento from your day, snap a selfie in front of the Olympic Rings and the Paralympic Agitos – both found in the north of the Park – to show your friends. We love to share our favourite visitor pictures on our social channels too, so don’t forget to tag the Park!