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when do the olympics start ?

**When Do the Olympics Start? A Guide to Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022**

The Olympics are a time of global excitement, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete in a celebration of sport. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just getting into the spirit, knowing when the Olympics start can help you plan to catch all the action. Let’s dive into the details for both the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics and the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

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### Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics (2021)

**Opening Ceremony:**
– **Date:** Friday, July 23, 2021
– **Time:** 8:00 PM local time in Tokyo (which translates to 7:00 AM ET and 4:00 AM PT in the US)

**Event Schedule:**
– While the official Games ran from July 23 to August 8, 2021, some events kicked off earlier. Softball and football matches began on July 21, giving early starts to sports enthusiasts.

**Impact of COVID-19:**
– The Tokyo Olympics were postponed from 2020 to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant adjustment that showcased the resilience of the international community.

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### Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics

**Opening Ceremony:**
– **Date:** Friday, February 4, 2022
– **Time:** 8:00 PM local time in Beijing (which translates to 7:00 AM ET and 4:00 AM PT in the US)

**Event Schedule:**
– The Games ran from February 4 to February 20, 2022, featuring a wide range of winter sports. The closing ceremony was held on February 20.

**Interesting Note:**
– While the world was focused on the Winter Olympics, the US was also gearing up for Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, highlighting a busy sports calendar.

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### A Brief History of the Olympics

The Olympic Games have a rich history, tracing back to ancient times in Greece. The modern era began in 1896, and the Games have since grown into a global spectacle, showcasing the pinnacle of athletic achievement. The Tokyo Games, for instance, saw over 11,000 athletes from 207 nations, while the Beijing Winter Olympics featured 2,922 athletes from 92 nations.

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### Where to Watch

For those in the US, NBC provided comprehensive coverage of both the Tokyo and Beijing Olympics. Check your local listings or stream live on NBC’s platforms to catch all the action.

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### Conclusion

Whether you’re marveling at the summer sports in Tokyo or the icy feats in Beijing, the Olympics are a time to celebrate athleticism and global unity. Mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on your favorite athletes as they strive for glory. Let the games begin!