Summer Olympics 2012: Opening Ceremony Will Live Up to Massive Hype

Even though play has already begun in London for certain sports, it's not until the opening ceremony that spectators around the world get into the Olympic spirit. The marquee event sets the tone for the entire Games.

After an impressive performance by organizers in Beijing four years ago, there has been plenty of talk about what Great Britain will pull off in an attempt to match China's success.

The ceremony, which is called "Isles of Wonder," should have no trouble living up to this hype.

The opening ceremonies have always drawn a huge audience. It's one of the few events that people from all around the globe can enjoy, unlike many of the sports, and the organizers know that. It puts a boatload of pressure on their shoulders.

After all, it's the one thing they can't afford to mess up. No matter how exciting the Games turn out to be in the ensuing weeks, a disappointing opening has the potential to overshadow it all.

That's no secret, so an unfathomable amount of time goes into the planning of the event. By the time the big day arrives, it has been rehearsed and fine-tuned to the point where it's basically become impossible for it to fail.

Hal Boedeker of the Orlando Sentinel reports there will be appearances by British royalty, including Queen Elizabeth, and a performance from Paul McCartney. It's that type of star power that makes the ceremony special.

Of course, there's also the parade of athletes, which is astonishing in its own right. From countries with hundreds of participants—like the United States and China—to those who will only bring a couple of athletes to the Games, it's a tremendous illustration of unity.

Even though the athletes all took unique journeys to reach London, they are all equals when they take part in the march.

All told, it seems like London is well prepared for its latest moment in the spotlight. Although the hype surrounding the ceremony has continued to grow in recent days, it should leave an impact equally as large for those who tune in.

The world will get a glimpse at British history through a modern display, all while enjoying the sights of one of the planet's most well-known cities.

It doesn't get much better than that.