2012 Summer Olympics

The London Games conclude with the Closing Ceremony at Olympic Stadium. Included: entrance of athletes; extinguishing of the cauldron; passing of the Olympic flag to the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, site of the 2016 Games; and "A Symphony of British Music", featuring performers from the last 50 years.

The Games begin with the Opening Ceremony at London's Olympic Stadium. A celebration of the host country, the event is expected to feature an on-field British meadow; farmyard animals; a cricket match; and a performance by Paul McCartney. Also: the traditional parade of nations and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron. The gala involves 10,000 volunteers; 10,000 athletes; and 60,000 spectators inside the stadium.