Today's the day! Opening ceremony from 5pm
Saturday 8 July from 5pm, St Peter Port seafront
Although the organisers might get a bit wet during the set-up today, the sun is due to come out this afternoon, just in time for the Opening Ceremony - entertainment starts from 5pm.
The highlights include the water ceremony at North Beach, and the parade of around 2,500 athletes and team members from North Beach to the Crown Pier. There are no tickets for the opening ceremony or any of the Games sporting events because entry everywhere is free.
Timings for the event are as follows:
| 4pm | Seafront closes |
| 5pm | Entertainment starts - spectators welcome to take their positions along the seafront and at North Beach. The Big Band collective will be playing on North Beach and this will also be played on a big screen at the bottom of Crown Pier. The crowd along the seafront will be treated to family entertainment, including face painters, magicians, hair braiders, bubbles, a selection of film characters and Disney princesses, and six island mascots. |
| 6pm | The final teams are due to arrive at North Beach. At approximately 6.30pm the ceremonial part will start with the water ceremony, short speeches, presentation of the Games flag and athletes oath. The Bailiff will declare the Games officially open. |
| This will be followed by a procession of all athletes from North Beach, around St Julians roundabout and along the seafront to the Albert Pier. Local acts and entertainment will also be part of the parade. The teams will depart straight from Albert Pier. | |
The St Peter Port area will be extremely busy so organisers are encouraging everyone to consider active or alternative travel. There will be extended bike parking areas, and park and strides from the top of the Val de Terres, Ladies College, Sir Charles Frossard House, and Beau Sejour.
Salarie Corner car park, Castle Emplacement, and the Odeon car park will be open but are expected to fill up quickly.
The buses are free for the whole week of the Games, except the late-night weekend buses.
We look forward to seeing you along the seafront later today! For those that are in Town earlier, there is 'have a go Boccia' in the Market Square from 2pm.
