ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the different types of ceremonies present in major sports events, and examines the concepts of rituals, myths, and symbolism within ceremonies. It describes concepts typically associated with festivals, such as communitas and authenticity, with major sports events’ ceremonies. From a practitioner’s perspective, the chapter aims to delve into logistical considerations for various types of ceremonies and to note the importance of protocol at these ceremonies relative to workforce members’ tasks and responsibilities. The flow of the ritual in ceremonies has been replaced with a series of performances. The rituals, myths, and even culture associated with ceremonies are of interest to researchers within and outside of sport. Some research on ceremonies focus particular aspects of the ceremonies such as innovation and aesthetics or athletes’ perceptions of the ceremonies and the importance of ceremonies within athletes’ overall Games experience. There are four ceremonies streams: torch celebrations, opening and closing ceremonies, and medal ceremonies.
