💙 Roundup Events Aug 8

The goal of the Heart of Roundup newsletter is to keep community members up to date on area events and fun stories.  This is a passion project and we are excited to bring a variety of exciting new things to Roundup.

Please email any events you know of to [email protected]

As the Olympic Games draw to a close, the excitement and camaraderie of the past fortnight culminate in the closing ceremony, a spectacular event that is as much a celebration of the athletes’ achievements as it is a symbolic handover to the next host city. Watching the closing ceremony with family and kids offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the moments that captivated us and to look forward to the future of sports and international cooperation.

The closing ceremony is not just the conclusion of the games but a vibrant celebration of the human spirit, sportsmanship, and global unity. Unlike the opening ceremony, which is more about introducing the host country’s culture and welcoming the athletes, the closing ceremony is a relaxed, festive affair, where athletes mingle and celebrate together, demonstrating the true spirit of the Olympics—bringing people from all corners of the globe together in peace and friendship.

For families watching at home, this event can serve as a beautiful reminder of the values that the Olympics strive to promote: unity, equality, and respect across cultures and nations. It’s a teaching moment for children, showing them that while the games are about competition, they are also about building bridges between different cultures and making lifelong friendships.

Engaging with the closing ceremony can be interactive and fun. Families can prepare a “closing ceremony” themed party, where dishes from the next host country are served, or crafts related to the Olympics, such as making flags or creating gold, silver, and bronze medals, are crafted. As you watch the flag handover to the next host city, it’s a great opportunity to start a conversation about this city and what the next games might look like.

Additionally, the artistic performances during the closing ceremony highlight the culture of the host nation and also include a preview of what to expect from the next host city. This melding of cultures is a splendid finale that not only entertains but enriches, providing a glimpse into the diversity and beauty of our world.

In conclusion, the Olympic closing ceremony is an event that encapsulates the joy and unity of the games, making it a perfect occasion for families to gather, celebrate, and learn. It’s a moment to appreciate the efforts of athletes worldwide and to foster hope and excitement for future Olympics, continuing the legacy of this extraordinary global event.

"The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well." - Pierre de Coubertin

Why do athletes love math at the Olympics?

Because they always try to win by a margin!

1. Tradition of Unity: Unlike the opening ceremony, during the closing ceremony, athletes march together and not by country. This tradition began during the Melbourne Olympics in 1956 and was suggested by a young Chinese apprentice carpenter, John Ian Wing, to symbolize global unity.

2. Handover Ceremony: One of the key moments in the closing ceremony is the “handover” where the mayor of the host city presents the Olympic flag to the mayor of the city hosting the next Olympic Games. This tradition symbolizes the continuation of the Olympics and connects the past, present, and future hosts.

3. The Antwerp Flag: Since 1920, the same flag, known as the Antwerp Flag, was traditionally passed from one host city to the next until Seoul 1988. Since then, a new flag is created for each Olympics.

4. The Olympic Flame Extinguished: A poignant moment of the closing ceremony is the extinguishing of the Olympic flame, marking the official end of the Games. This is often accompanied by dramatic and emotional performances.

5. Cultural Showcase: The closing ceremony is renowned for its cultural performances that showcase the host nation’s heritage. Additionally, the next host city is given a segment to provide a sneak peek into their culture and what the world can expect in four years.

6. Athlete Celebrations: The closing ceremony is less formal than the opening ceremony and often features a party-like atmosphere where athletes can relax and celebrate their achieve