A kaleidoscopic opening ceremony in Abidjan provided a taste of Cote d'Ivoire's rich culture as the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations burst into life on Saturday.
The iconic Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara throbbed with colour as dancers, acrobats and musicians delivered a high-octane celebration of Ivorian tradition.
Through carefully choreographed routines, the hosts presented their diversity to the world and pride in forging "a people and a destiny" over time.
The vibrant performances also honoured African unity, with Cote d'Ivoire welcoming the continent's 54 nations with its legendary hospitality.
Meanwhile, the country's booming infrastructure was displayed via footage of its impressive network of roads, bridges and facilities.
These multiform developments are a source of national pride as Cote d'Ivoire continues rapid economic growth.
An array of A-list African music stars then took centre stage to crank up the carnival atmosphere inside the packed 60,000-capacity venue.
Ivorian singer Jose got the party started before Congolese artist Daju had thousands jumping with his infectious hits.
The iconic sounds of Magic System had the stadium rocking as the Ivorian band teamed up with Nigeria's Yemi Alade and Egyptian singer Ramadan.
As their TotalEnegies CAF AFCON 2023 anthem played, extravagant fireworks lit up the Abidjan sky to officially launch the tournament.
It whipped expectant fans into a frenzy moments before Cote d'Ivoire's opening clash with Guinea-Bissau.
According to leading African football journalist Nuhu Adams, it was a ceremony worthy of kicking off a landmark AFCON.
"This was African culture and talent projected to the world in spectacular fashion," Adams told CAFOnline.com
"From the choreography to the music, it showcased what makes Cote d'Ivoire and Africa unique. It set the perfect tone for the football to come."
With the continent's eyes on Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire delivered a symbolic celebration of tradition and ambition at the start of a historic AFCON.
After a month of unforgettable moments on and off the pitch, one nation will emerge triumphant on February 11th.
But this dazzling opener provided an early glimpse of what makes the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations so special.
