1998 Winter Olympics closing ceremony

The closing ceremony of the 1998 Winter Olympics took place at Nagano Olympic Stadium in Nagano, Japan, on 22 February 1998. It began at 18:00 JST and finished at approximately 19:41 JST. As mandated by the Olympic Charter, the proceedings combines the formal and ceremonial closing of this international sporting event, including farewell speeches and closing of the Games by IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch. Followed by the extinguishing of the Olympic flame and protocol for showing the next Olympic winter games.

Proceedings

Opening and Parade of Nations

Handover of the Olympic flag

First, the Greek flag was raised while its playing the national anthem. Second, the Japanese flag was raised while its playing the national anthem. Third, the Flag of the United States raised while its playing the national anthem. The Olympic flag was passed by the Mayor of Nagano City, Tasuku Tsukada, to IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch, who then handed it over to the Mayor of Salt Lake City, Deedee Corradini. The flag was raised again in Sydney, Australia for the 2000 Summer Olympics on 15 September 2000 for the opening ceremony.

Contrast, culture and courage: "See you in 2002".

Salt Lake City, the host city of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, presented a special performance called Contrast, Culture and Courage, featuring symbols and images that represent the American Wild West, including cowboys, stagecoaches and Utah's own Delicate Arch, based in Arches National Park.