The opening ceremony of the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto will be broadcast live on CBC on Friday, July 10, from 5 p.m., Central Time.

The ceremony will be held at the Rogers Centre, to be known throughout the games as the Pan Am Ceremonies Venue.

Organizers say the celebration will showcase the diversity of the Toronto region and all of Canada, as well as the vibrant cultures of the Americas. 

The ceremony will include a one-time-only show created by the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil. 

The parade of athletes from 41 nations will include the 510- and 623-strong delegations from Mexico and the United States. Canada’s delegation of 722 athletes – the largest participating nation – will bring up the rear of the parade. 

Sporting activities got underway ahead of the opening ceremony this week, with competition starting in water polo and synchronized swimming. Medals will be awarded in 12 of the 32 scheduled sports during the opening weekend.

Mexican Olympic Committee chiefs admit that the haul of 42 gold medals from the games held in Guadalajara four years ago is unlikely to be repeated. A minimum target of 21 golds has been set.

Canada’s Governor General David Johnston will officially open the games.

The games will run through Sunday, July 26. Those with access to CBC will be able to get coverage in English. Otherwise,  ESPN, Televisa and TV Azteca will be showing highlights.