Canada's Olympic team hoisted its colours and once the dignitaries left, the party began at the athletes village.
Women's hockey team captain Hayley Wickenheiser and figure skater Patrick Chan chatted and exchanged contact information while blue-clad volunteers swarmed red-clad athletes to wish them luck.
Canadian actress Sandra Oh and an RCMP officer danced in the rain to celebrate the host team's official arrival in the village. Oh, one of the stars of the TV drama "Grey's Anatomy," served as master of ceremonies.
Rick Hansen, who inspired Canadians with his wheelchair trip around the world, and former Olympic rower Patricia Smith also welcomed the athletes to what will be their home until Feb. 28
Before departing, Prime Minister Stephen Harper chatted with the Canadians, some of whom gathered behind him for a quick photo.
Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean also took in the festivities before she was taken on a tour of the village.
B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell, International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound and Senator Nancy Greene-Raine, a former Olympic gold medallist in alpine skiing, were among those at the ceremony on the edge of False Creek.
