CWG 26: Glasgow 2026 Opening Ceremony Timings, Live Streaming, Performers List; All You Need to Know

CWG 26: Glasgow is getting ready for 10 days of global sporting extravaganza as the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening ceremony kicks off from 23rd July. Medal events will run from Friday 24 July to Sunday 2 August, with more than 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competing for 215 golds.

However, before sporting action begins, all eyes will be on the opening night at Glasgow's Hydro Arena, which will be celebrating the arrival of athletes, officials, volunteers and fans as the XXIII Commonwealth Games officially get underway.

In a symbolic display of unity, every participating nation and territory will carry a uniquely designed baton that reflects its cultural heritage. These individual batons will come together during the opening ceremony, while the Glasgow 2026 mascot, Finnie, is also expected to play a prominent role in the festivities.

After winning over global audiences with their vibrant and energetic celebrations during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Scotland is set to bring that same spirit to the Commonwealth Games. In a first for the event, the opening ceremony will be staged inside an arena rather than a traditional stadium, creating a more intimate setting for welcoming the athletes.

Here's everything you need to know about the Commonwealth Games 2026 Opening day.

CWG 26: Who All Are Performing In The Opening Ceremony?

A star-studded line-up of Scottish artists will headline the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony, with Tom Walker, KT Tunstall, Callum Beattie, Nina Nesbitt, Valtos, and Nathan Evans alongside Saint PHNX set to perform.

The ceremony will also feature vibrant dance performances, immersive visuals and the traditional Athlete Parade of Nations at the iconic Hydro Arena, a venue that has previously welcomed global music stars including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran.
Singer-songwriter Tom Walker, best known for his hit Leave a Light On, expressed his excitement about performing at the event.

"I'm absolutely honoured to be part of the Opening Ceremony for the Commonwealth Games. I was born in Scotland and to be asked to perform on stage at the Hydro is always a 'pinch yourself' moment for me. I'm buzzing to be back in Glasgow, always one of the best crowds to play to, they never disappoint."

The opening ceremony will also feature one of Scotland's greatest sporting icons, Sir Chris Hoy, in what is expected to be an emotional appearance. The six-time Olympic cycling champion revealed in October 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer.

Reflecting on his role in the ceremony, Hoy said, quoted by the Olympics, "It is an absolute honour to attend the opening of Glasgow 2026 with the King and Queen."

The 11-time world champion, after whom Glasgow's Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome is named, also recalled his cherished memories of competing at the Commonwealth Games.

"A home Games is always a special occasion and I have so many wonderful memories from competing in the Commonwealth Games myself. I have no doubt the city of Glasgow will yet again be a superb host to what promises to be an exciting event and I very much look forward to being a part of it."

CWG 26: When Will The Opening Ceremony Start?

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony will begin at 12:30 AM IST on Friday, July 24, with the Athlete Parade of Nations scheduled to start at 1:00 AM IST.

CWG 26: Where To Watch The Opening Ceremony Live?

Fans can watch the Commonwealth Games 2026 LIVE on the following channels: