Get ready, winter sports fans! Harbin, nestled in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the ninth Asian Winter Games in less than a month. The grand opening ceremony is set for February 7, and it's shaping up to be an unforgettable spectacle. 🥳
Sha Xiaolan, the mastermind behind both the opening and closing ceremonies, shared his enthusiasm with China Media Group (CMG). \"The overall progress has been very smooth,\" Sha said. \"We started rehearsals for individual segments at the main venue in December, and I'm pleased to say that this phase has been successfully completed.\"
After dazzling the world with the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games ceremonies in Beijing back in 2022, Sha and his creative team are ready to bring their A-game once again. \"We are now moving on to the next stage, where we will integrate all the segments together for a cohesive performance,\" he explained. \"Our aim is to present a simple, yet spectacular and safe opening ceremony that resonates with the theme of this event: 'Dream of Winter, Love among Asia.'\" ❄️❤️
Harbin's iconic landmarks have played a starring role in inspiring the team. \"Notably, landmarks like Central Avenue, Ice and Snow World, and Music Square have left a profound impression on our creative team,\" Sha noted. \"These elements will be woven into the fabric of the opening ceremony, serving as both our aesthetic inspiration and foundation, thereby showcasing the enchanting charm of Harbin.\" 🎶🏰
This year's games are set to be the biggest yet! A whopping 1,275 athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered for Harbin 2025, including first-time participants Cambodia and Saudi Arabia. It's looking like this will be the most attended Asian Winter Games in history. 🌏⛸️
So mark your calendars and bundle up—Harbin is about to host a winter celebration that promises to warm hearts across Asia and beyond! ❄️🎉
Reference(s):
Harbin prepares for spectacular Asian Winter Games opening ceremony
cgtn.com
