With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games nearly here, we can’t wait to see the Team GB athletes going for gold in Paris. If like us, your kids can’t wait either, we’ve pulled together a list of the top 5 Olympic Games of all time to get the whole family clued up before the opening ceremony starts. Get ready as we run through past Olympics locations, amazing athletes and some unforgettable moments. Before we jump in, don’t forget to check out our article on the history of the Olympic Games for kids, to learn how it all started.
The Top 5 Olympic Games of All Time
Athens 1896 - The start of the Modern Olympic Games
The Olympics in 1896 were super important as they kickstarted the modern Olympic Games. Taking all the good parts from the ancient games and adding in some fresh new ideas helped to give the Olympics a completely new look. Going back to where it all started in Athens, James Connolly won the first ever Olympic gold medal in the triple jump. Plus the Greek runner, Spyridon Louis, won the marathon to make the host nation proud. To top it all off, the Greek capital hosted the first ever closing ceremony to wrap up a successful first Olympics Games.
Berlin 1936 - Superstar Jesse Owens
There was a lot of uncertainty in the world when the 1936 Berlin Olympics came around, and many people were still treated unfairly simply because of the colour of their skin. Despite this, Jesse Owens pulled off a stunning Olympic performance to win four gold medals at the games. This was one of the most iconic moments in the history of the Olympics as it showed that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, if you do your best and show true spirit, you can become a champion.
Sydney 2000 - Unforgettable moments Down Under
The Australian athletes shone on home soil at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, but it wasn’t just the wins that made the whole country proud. These games also brought together lots of Australian athletes from different backgrounds to show the importance of diversity in sports. These are remembered as a success, not just for a sunny summer Olympic Games in Sydney, but for also showing the true Olympic spirit of diversity, unity, and respect.
Beijing 2008 - A Bolt from the blue
With dazzling opening and closing ceremonies, and iconic venues like the Bird’s Nest Stadium, the 2008 Beijing Olympics will be remembered as one of the best ever. Hosting their first ever Olympic Games, China put on a spectacular show which was backed up with several record-breaking performances by the Chinese athletes. It was also memorable for Usain Bolt bursting onto the scene with some speedy new world records in sprinting, and Michael Phelps winning a historic eight gold medals in swimming.
London 2012 - The best of Britain
The 2012 London Olympics are fondly remembered for bringing the nation together to celebrate British culture and sporting excellence. Against the backdrop of famous landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben, who can forget Mo Farah’s double gold in long-distance running and Usain Bolt keeping his title as ‘the fastest man alive’? With so many other memorable moments, these Olympics are remembered for inspiring the next generation of young athletes.
That wraps up our list of the top 5 Olympic Games of all time. We hope you’ve learned something about past Olympic locations, inspiring athletes, and the true spirit of the Olympic Games. If you’re looking to bring the fun of the Olympics home, then check out these fun Olympic games for kids to get you started and if you want more information on the Olympics check out our Team GB Hub.