The quadrennial multi-sport event will see approximately 4,500 athletes from 71 Commonwealth nations and territories complete across 17 sports over the next 11 days in Scotland's second city.
An estimated 3,000 people were involved in the ceremony that took place at the home of the Scottish football champions Celtic, with a capacity crowd treated to entertainment from famous Scots such as Rod Stewart, Susan Boyle and Lulu.
Queen Elizabeth II officially opened the Games with a message read from a note she placed inside a baton that left Buckingham Palace last October.
"To you, the athletes of the Commonwealth, I send my good wishes in your endeavours," read the message.
"Your accomplishments over the coming days will strengthen the bonds that unite us."
The Queen's words and even her appearance at Celtic Park - the scene of some serious sectarian rivalries over the years - was quite symbolic, coming just two months ahead of a referendum being held to determine Scotland's independence.
Despite the politics of the moment, the Games will still be notable for the fact several of the world's top athletes are scheduled to appear at 'The Friendly Games', which Scotland is hosting for a third time.
Organisers of the event have been busy drumming up a frenzy for the showpiece and have promised to deliver an "outstanding Games - one that will be an exemplar for future organising committees".
The sporting action is set to get under way on Thursday, with the first medals being awarded in the triathlon.