The 2010 Vancouver Winter Games begin tonight! Whether you like sports or not, I think everyone can get behind the idea of opening ceremonies–there are costumes for the fashionistas, choreography for the dance fans, and great design for creative, artsy types. And if you’re not into any of that, there’s usually some pretty cool gymnastics and fireworks.

Host cities usually pour millions of dollars into designing an opening ceremony that reflects their nation’s history and culture. In anticipation of the Vancouver opening ceremonies (what will those Canadians come up with??) we wanted to look at some of the opening ceremonies of the past.

The parade of nations in Athens brought the centuries-old Games full circle back to the land where they originated.

Beijing had one of the more exciting–and expensive–opening ceremonies in recent memory.

Atlanta went with a “Traditions of the South”, which many found controversial.

The uber-theatrical Salt Lake City opener:

And just for a throwback, here are the Helsinki Games from 1952: