2012 London Olympics: Opening Ceremony To Be Held Friday

The thousands of synchronized drummers in Beijing and Muhammad Ali lighting the torch in Atlanta are just two of many images from opening ceremonies burned into the minds of millions in the world. The lighting of the torch ceremony always provides memorable moments and London promises to offer a similar image to be remembered.

Taking place on Friday, July 27 at 9 p.m. London time, the opening ceremony for the games will be broadcast on NBC starting at 7:30 p.m. ET.

The details regarding the ceremony are always secretive, but according to the official website of the 2012 London Olympics, the ceremony will feature a cast of 15,000 performers and will be viewed by more than four billion viewers worldwide.

Holding the American flag for Team USA will be 27-year-old fencer Mariel Zagunis, who has won gold in each of the last two Olympics for the United States.

For full coverage of London 2012, head over to SB Nation's Olympics hub.