Opening Ceremony Rio 2016 Olympics: Start Time, Performers List and How to Watch Online

You wouldn't know it from the disastrous conditions of the Olympic Village and the local venues. You might even think there's talk of postponing due to the terrorist threats. But against all odds, the 2016 Rio Olympics are fast approaching. The opening ceremony kicks off Friday, and it's primed to be a star-studded affair. 

Start time

For U.S. viewers, NBC will be the place to check out the opening ceremony starting at 7:30 p.m. Eastern.

Performers

Since the Olympics are being hosted in Brazil, there will be a plethora of Brazilian artists pegged to perform. Brazilian musicians Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, and Paulinho da Viola will perform on opening night, according to the Latin Post. Ryan Seacrest will also host his own late night show throughout the Olympics.

How on Earth can I watch this? 

Make your way to NBC, or Telemundo for the Spanish language version for the opening ceremony on TV. Those without those channels can livestream the opening ceremony on NBC's Olympics website.

For other events to livestream, check out the full schedule here. Enjoy the games — in all of its chaos and glory. 

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August 5, 2016, 6:06 p.m. Eastern: This story has been updated.