Did you miss out on an invite to Paris for the 2024 Olympics? Don't worry, so did we. But that doesn't mean you can't still get behind the Australian squad who have travelled to the City of Love for their chance at Olympic glory. With 460 talented athletes competing for 329 medal events across 32 sports, we're pretty confident of the team's ability to snag some gold medals.
So whether you're a die-hard sports nut or just looking for an excuse to join the Olympic bandwagon, there's never been a better time to cheer on our Aussie legends. Here's where you can do just that.
When is the Olympics Opening Ceremony in Melbourne time?
The 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony will take place on the evening of Friday, July 26, 2024. The grand spectacle will begin at 8.24pm local time in Paris. For Melburnians, that’s 4.24am AEST – very early on the morning of Saturday, July 27.
When does the Olympics start in Melbourne time?
The Olympic games all officially kick off from Saturday, July 27. You can check out the competition schedule here.
The Paris Olympics will continue for 19 days, ending with the Closing Ceremony on Sunday, August 11.
The Paralympics will actually continue for longer – running from August 28 to September 8.
How can you watch the Olympics on TV from Melbourne?
You can watch the Olympics on free-to-air TV via the Nine Network, and catch up on 9Now. Stan Sport will also broadcast all events.
Spots to watch the Olympics in Melbourne
Fed Square
Get amongst the sea of green and gold at Fed Square, which has been announced as Victoria’s official live site for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. From July 26, the CBD hub will show highlights and replays on the big screen between 12pm and 4pm, followed by Channel Nine's live broadcast until 10pm.
After the Matildas' success at last year's FIFA Women's World Cup, Fed Square will also screen every Tillies match. Entry will be free but ticketed, with temporary fencing and bag checks upon arrival. You'll need to register online here, with tickets allocated on a first come first served basis.
Westfield shopping centres
All 37 Westfield destinations across Australia will be transforming into official Live Sites for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Once the Olympics start, you can rock up to your local Westfield to watch live streams of key matches direct from Paris, and enjoy Olympic- and Paralympic-themed events and live music. And yes, they will be extending their opening times, including into the early hours of the morning so that fans can watch live. Once the Olympics are on, you can find out what’s happening over here.
The Crafty Squire
You can't go past the Crafty Squire when it comes to CBD pubs that tick all the right boxes. Not only does it boast a bangin' line-up of beers and sports-watching snacks (we're talking burgers, nachos and bougie sausage rolls), but it will also be showing every important moment live from Paris on the huge screens.
The Duke of Wellington
Melbourne's oldest licensed pub will transform into a haven for sports fanatics while the Olympics is on. With several screens dotted throughout the venue, you'll be able to catch everything from swimming and soccer to athletics and cycling. The vibes at the Duke are always fun and lively, so don't be surprised if you get swept up in an 'Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi' chant.
Imperial Hotel
While it's traditionally the official home of Liverpool supporters in Melbourne, the Imperial will be backing the Aussies all the way for the duration of the Olympics. Pop in from 5pm to grab a pint and a parma, then sit back and watch on as our athletes go for gold. With 23 screens across three levels, you won't miss a minute of the action.
The Espy
It's best known as a legendary live music venue and pub trivia hotspot, but that doesn't mean the Espy in St Kilda won't be broadcasting the biggest sporting event of the year. The public bar will have all screens tuned into the Olympics, so there's no excuse not to support our athletes in their quest for greatness.
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