The opening ceremony of China’s 15th National Games was held at Guangzhou’s Guangdong Olympic Sports Center.
Major events across the Greater Bay Area are underscoring the region’s growing economic influence and its emergence as a prime stage for high-profile gatherings.
For the first time, the 15th National Games – China’s top multi-sport event held every four years – is being co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.
The opening ceremony on 9 November at Guangzhou’s Guangdong Olympic Sports Center featured a synchronised national flag-raising in Hong Kong’s Golden Bauhinia Square and Macao’s Lotus Square. Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the Games open, with IOC President Kirsty Coventry, IOC lifetime honorary president Thomas Bach, and other international guests in attendance.
Cultural performances showcased the Greater Bay Area’s blend of tradition and innovation. Highlights included robots playing the traditional percussion instrument goudiao and martial artists performing Wing Chun.
The closing ceremony on 21 November in Shenzhen is expected to spotlight the city’s tech credentials, with contributions from major players such as Huawei and display manufacturer Unilumin Group.
More than 14,000 athletes are competing, alongside some 11,000 participants in mass-participation events. Running until 21 November, the Games are projected to attract an average of 90,000 visitors daily.