Invictus Games 2025 kick off with star-studded opening ceremony in Vancouver

The 2025 Invictus Games have officially kicked off in Vancouver with a star-studded opening ceremony that featured artists such as Katy Perry, Roxane Bruneau, Noah Kahan, Nelly Furtado, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin. Event producer Patrick Roberge described it as the most star-studded event the Games have ever seen, with around 800 performers entertaining a crowd of approximately 40,000 at B.C. Place.

Founded by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, in 2014, the Invictus Games are dedicated to wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans. This year’s Games include up to 550 athletes from 23 nations competing in 11 adaptive sports in Whistler and Vancouver. The event will take place in venues that previously hosted the 2010 Olympic Games.

One of the highlights of this year’s Games is the inclusion of winter sports for the first time, such as skeleton, skiing events, and wheelchair curling. These sports will be alongside indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair basketball events that have been featured in previous Games.

Organizers are excited to host the first hybrid Games, with four First Nations serving as co-hosts. This partnership symbolizes the shared healing journey of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The theme of the ceremonies is “paddle together,” reflecting the unity of the community in hosting the Games.

Chris Martin, who composed the anthem for the inaugural Invictus Games in 2014, is set to perform the song live for the first time at the opening ceremony. The energy and excitement surrounding the event are palpable, with performers and attendees alike looking forward to a unique and unforgettable experience.

Gabrille Hack, a Vancouver resident attending the opening ceremony, expressed her excitement at the event’s atmosphere and the opportunity to see renowned musicians live. Another attendee, Gina Behnke, was particularly thrilled to see artist Noah Kahan perform.

This year marks the seventh edition of the Invictus Games and the second time they have been held in Canada, with Toronto hosting in 2017. Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, are expected to attend various events throughout the Games.

The Games will run until February 16, culminating in a closing ceremony at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena. The closing ceremony will feature performances by artists such as country singer Jelly Roll and Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies, providing a fitting end to this celebration of resilience and determination among injured military and service personnel.